Critias

Introduction and Introduction and analysis. The critias is a fragment analysis. The critias is a fragment analysis. The critias is a fragment which breaks off in the middle of a which breaks off in the middle of a which breaks off in the middle of a sentence. It was designed to be the sentence. It was designed to be the sentence. It was designed to be the second part of a trilogy which like the second part of a trilogy which like the second part of a trilogy which like the other great platonic trilogy of the other great platonic trilogy of the other great platonic trilogy of the sophist statesman philosopher was never sophist statesman philosopher was never sophist statesman philosopher was never completed. Tamias had brought down the completed. Tamias had brought down the completed. Tamias had brought down the origin of the world to the creation of origin of the world to the creation of origin of the world to the creation of man and the dawn of history was now to man and the dawn of history was now to man and the dawn of history was now to succeed the philosophy of nature. The succeed the philosophy of nature. The succeed the philosophy of nature. The critias is also connected with the critias is also connected with the critias is also connected with the republic. Plato as he has already told republic. Plato as he has already told republic. Plato as he has already told us parenthesis timias end of parenthesis us parenthesis timias end of parenthesis us parenthesis timias end of parenthesis intended to represent the ideal state intended to represent the ideal state intended to represent the ideal state engaged in a patriotic conflict. This engaged in a patriotic conflict. This engaged in a patriotic conflict. This mythical conflict is prophetic or mythical conflict is prophetic or mythical conflict is prophetic or symbolic of the struggle of Athens and symbolic of the struggle of Athens and symbolic of the struggle of Athens and Persia, perhaps in some degree also of Persia, perhaps in some degree also of Persia, perhaps in some degree also of the wars of the Greeks and the wars of the Greeks and the wars of the Greeks and Carthaginians in the same way that the Carthaginians in the same way that the Carthaginians in the same way that the Persian is prefigured by the Trojan War Persian is prefigured by the Trojan War Persian is prefigured by the Trojan War to the mind of to the mind of to the mind of Heroditus or as the narrative of the Heroditus or as the narrative of the Heroditus or as the narrative of the first part of the Eniad is intended by first part of the Eniad is intended by first part of the Eniad is intended by Virgil to foreshadow the wars of Virgil to foreshadow the wars of Virgil to foreshadow the wars of Carthage and Rome. The small number of Carthage and Rome. The small number of Carthage and Rome. The small number of the primitive Athenian citizens 20,000 the primitive Athenian citizens 20,000 the primitive Athenian citizens 20,000 which is about their present number which is about their present number which is about their present number parenthesis criters end of parenthesis parenthesis criters end of parenthesis parenthesis criters end of parenthesis is evidently designed to contrast with is evidently designed to contrast with is evidently designed to contrast with the myriads and barbaric array of the the myriads and barbaric array of the the myriads and barbaric array of the Atlantic hosts.

Atlantic hosts. Atlantic hosts. The passing remark in the Tamias that The passing remark in the Tamias that The passing remark in the Tamias that Athens was left alone in the struggle in Athens was left alone in the struggle in Athens was left alone in the struggle in which she conquered and became the which she conquered and became the which she conquered and became the liberator of Greece is also an illusion liberator of Greece is also an illusion liberator of Greece is also an illusion to the later history. Hence we may to the later history. Hence we may to the later history. Hence we may safely conclude that the entire safely conclude that the entire safely conclude that the entire narrative is due to the imagination of narrative is due to the imagination of narrative is due to the imagination of Plato who has used the name of Solon and Plato who has used the name of Solon and Plato who has used the name of Solon and introduced the Egyptian priests to give introduced the Egyptian priests to give introduced the Egyptian priests to give verilitude to his story. To the Greek, verilitude to his story. To the Greek, verilitude to his story. To the Greek, such a tale like that of the earthorn such a tale like that of the earthorn such a tale like that of the earthorn men would have seemed perfectly men would have seemed perfectly men would have seemed perfectly accordant with the character of his accordant with the character of his accordant with the character of his mythology, and not more marvelous than mythology, and not more marvelous than mythology, and not more marvelous than the wonders of the east narrated by the wonders of the east narrated by the wonders of the east narrated by Herodotus and others. He might have been Herodotus and others. He might have been Herodotus and others. He might have been deceived into believing it, but it deceived into believing it, but it deceived into believing it, but it appears strange that later ages should appears strange that later ages should appears strange that later ages should have been imposed upon by the fiction, have been imposed upon by the fiction, have been imposed upon by the fiction, as many attempts have been made to find as many attempts have been made to find as many attempts have been made to find the great island of Atlantis, as to the great island of Atlantis, as to the great island of Atlantis, as to discover the country of the lost tribes. discover the country of the lost tribes. discover the country of the lost tribes. Without regard to the description of Without regard to the description of Without regard to the description of Plato, and without a suspicion that the Plato, and without a suspicion that the Plato, and without a suspicion that the whole narrative is a fabrication, whole narrative is a fabrication, whole narrative is a fabrication, interpreters have looked for the spot in interpreters have looked for the spot in interpreters have looked for the spot in every part of the globe. America, every part of the globe. America, every part of the globe. America, Arabia, Felix, son, Palestine, Sardinia, Arabia, Felix, son, Palestine, Sardinia, Arabia, Felix, son, Palestine, Sardinia, Sweden. Tamias concludes with a prayer Sweden. Tamias concludes with a prayer Sweden. Tamias concludes with a prayer that his words may be acceptable to the that his words may be acceptable to the that his words may be acceptable to the God whom he has revealed. And Critius, God whom he has revealed. And Critius, God whom he has revealed. And Critius, whose turn follows, begs that a larger whose turn follows, begs that a larger whose turn follows, begs that a larger measure of indulgence may be conceded to measure of indulgence may be conceded to measure of indulgence may be conceded to him because he has to speak of men whom him because he has to speak of men whom him because he has to speak of men whom we know and not of gods whom we do not

we know and not of gods whom we do not we know and not of gods whom we do not know. know. know. Socrates readily grants his request and Socrates readily grants his request and Socrates readily grants his request and anticipating that Hermocrates will make anticipating that Hermocrates will make anticipating that Hermocrates will make a similar petition extends by a similar petition extends by a similar petition extends by anticipation a like indulgence to anticipation a like indulgence to anticipation a like indulgence to him. Critius returns to his story him. Critius returns to his story him. Critius returns to his story professing only to repeat what Solon was professing only to repeat what Solon was professing only to repeat what Solon was told by the priests. The war of which he told by the priests. The war of which he told by the priests. The war of which he was about to speak had occurred 9,000 was about to speak had occurred 9,000 was about to speak had occurred 9,000 years ago. One of the combatants was the years ago. One of the combatants was the years ago. One of the combatants was the city of Athens. The other was the great city of Athens. The other was the great city of Athens. The other was the great island of Atlantis. Critius proposes to island of Atlantis. Critius proposes to island of Atlantis. Critius proposes to speak of these rival powers first of all speak of these rival powers first of all speak of these rival powers first of all giving to Athens the precedence. The giving to Athens the precedence. The giving to Athens the precedence. The various tribes of Greeks and barbarians various tribes of Greeks and barbarians various tribes of Greeks and barbarians who took part in the war will be dealt who took part in the war will be dealt who took part in the war will be dealt with as they successfully appear on the with as they successfully appear on the with as they successfully appear on the scene. In the beginning, the gods agreed scene. In the beginning, the gods agreed scene. In the beginning, the gods agreed to divide the earth by lot in a friendly to divide the earth by lot in a friendly to divide the earth by lot in a friendly manner. And when they had made the manner. And when they had made the manner. And when they had made the allotment, they settled their several allotment, they settled their several allotment, they settled their several countries and were the shepherds or countries and were the shepherds or countries and were the shepherds or rather the pilots of mankind whom they rather the pilots of mankind whom they rather the pilots of mankind whom they guided by persuasion and not by force.

guided by persuasion and not by force. guided by persuasion and not by force. Heestas and Athena, brother and sister Heestas and Athena, brother and sister Heestas and Athena, brother and sister deities in mind and art united, obtained deities in mind and art united, obtained deities in mind and art united, obtained as their lot the land of Attica, a land as their lot the land of Attica, a land as their lot the land of Attica, a land suited to the growth of virtue and suited to the growth of virtue and suited to the growth of virtue and wisdom. And there they settled a brave wisdom. And there they settled a brave wisdom. And there they settled a brave race of children of the soil and taught race of children of the soil and taught race of children of the soil and taught them how to order the state. Some of them how to order the state. Some of them how to order the state. Some of their names such as Scrops, Ericus, their names such as Scrops, Ericus, their names such as Scrops, Ericus, Ericthonius, and Aerosthon were Ericthonius, and Aerosthon were Ericthonius, and Aerosthon were preserved and adopted in later times, preserved and adopted in later times, preserved and adopted in later times, but the memory of their deeds has passed but the memory of their deeds has passed but the memory of their deeds has passed away. For there have since been many away. For there have since been many away. For there have since been many deluges, and the remnant who survived in deluges, and the remnant who survived in deluges, and the remnant who survived in the mountains were ignorant of the art the mountains were ignorant of the art the mountains were ignorant of the art of writing, and during many generations of writing, and during many generations of writing, and during many generations were wholly devoted to acquiring the were wholly devoted to acquiring the were wholly devoted to acquiring the means of life. And the armed image of means of life. And the armed image of means of life. And the armed image of the goddess which was dedicated by the the goddess which was dedicated by the the goddess which was dedicated by the ancient Athenians is an evidence to ancient Athenians is an evidence to ancient Athenians is an evidence to other ages that men and women had in other ages that men and women had in other ages that men and women had in those days, as they ought always to those days, as they ought always to those days, as they ought always to have, common virtues and pursuits. There have, common virtues and pursuits. There have, common virtues and pursuits. There were various classes of citizens, were various classes of citizens, were various classes of citizens, including handicraftsmen and husbandmen, including handicraftsmen and husbandmen, including handicraftsmen and husbandmen, and a superior class of warriors who and a superior class of warriors who and a superior class of warriors who dwelt apart and were educated and had dwelt apart and were educated and had dwelt apart and were educated and had all things in common like our all things in common like our all things in common like our guardians. Attica in those days extended guardians. Attica in those days extended guardians. Attica in those days extended southwards to the Istas, and inland to southwards to the Istas, and inland to southwards to the Istas, and inland to the heights of Parns and Siththeron, and the heights of Parns and Siththeron, and the heights of Parns and Siththeron, and between them and the sea included the between them and the sea included the between them and the sea included the district of Oruripus. The country was district of Oruripus. The country was district of Oruripus. The country was then, as what remains of it still is, then, as what remains of it still is, then, as what remains of it still is, the most fertile in the world, and

the most fertile in the world, and the most fertile in the world, and abounded in rich plains and pastures. abounded in rich plains and pastures. abounded in rich plains and pastures. But in the course of ages, much of the But in the course of ages, much of the But in the course of ages, much of the soil was washed away and disappeared in soil was washed away and disappeared in soil was washed away and disappeared in the deep sea, and the inhabitants of the deep sea, and the inhabitants of the deep sea, and the inhabitants of this fair land were endowed with this fair land were endowed with this fair land were endowed with intelligence and the love of beauty. The intelligence and the love of beauty. The intelligence and the love of beauty. The Acropolis of the ancient Athens extended Acropolis of the ancient Athens extended Acropolis of the ancient Athens extended to the Ilicus and Idinus and included to the Ilicus and Idinus and included to the Ilicus and Idinus and included the Penins and the Labatas on the the Penins and the Labatas on the the Penins and the Labatas on the opposite side of the Penins having a opposite side of the Penins having a opposite side of the Penins having a level surface and deep soil. The side of level surface and deep soil. The side of level surface and deep soil. The side of the hill was inhabited by craftsmen and the hill was inhabited by craftsmen and the hill was inhabited by craftsmen and husbandmen, and the warriors dwelt by husbandmen, and the warriors dwelt by husbandmen, and the warriors dwelt by themselves on the summit around the themselves on the summit around the themselves on the summit around the temples of Hephestas and Atheni in an temples of Hephestas and Atheni in an temples of Hephestas and Atheni in an enclosure which was like the garden of a enclosure which was like the garden of a enclosure which was like the garden of a single house. In winter they retired single house. In winter they retired single house. In winter they retired into houses on the north of the hill in into houses on the north of the hill in into houses on the north of the hill in which they held their cicia. These were which they held their cicia. These were which they held their cicia. These were modest dwellings which they bequeathed modest dwellings which they bequeathed modest dwellings which they bequeathed unaltered to their children's children. unaltered to their children's children. unaltered to their children's children. In summertime the south side was In summertime the south side was In summertime the south side was inhabited by them and then they left inhabited by them and then they left inhabited by them and then they left their gardens and dining halls. In the their gardens and dining halls. In the their gardens and dining halls. In the midst of the acropolis was a fountain midst of the acropolis was a fountain midst of the acropolis was a fountain which gave an abundant supply of cool which gave an abundant supply of cool which gave an abundant supply of cool water in summer and warm in winter. Of water in summer and warm in winter. Of water in summer and warm in winter. Of this there are still some traces. They this there are still some traces. They this there are still some traces. They were careful to preserve the number of were careful to preserve the number of were careful to preserve the number of fighting men and women at 20,000 which fighting men and women at 20,000 which fighting men and women at 20,000 which is equal to that of the present military is equal to that of the present military is equal to that of the present military force. And so they passed their lives as force. And so they passed their lives as force. And so they passed their lives as guardians of the citizens and leaders of guardians of the citizens and leaders of guardians of the citizens and leaders of the Helines. They were a just and famous the Helines. They were a just and famous the Helines. They were a just and famous race celebrated for their beauty and

race celebrated for their beauty and race celebrated for their beauty and virtue all over Europe and Asia. And now virtue all over Europe and Asia. And now virtue all over Europe and Asia. And now I will speak to you of their I will speak to you of their I will speak to you of their adversaries. But first I ought to adversaries. But first I ought to adversaries. But first I ought to explain that the Greek names were given explain that the Greek names were given explain that the Greek names were given to Solon in an Egyptian form and he to Solon in an Egyptian form and he to Solon in an Egyptian form and he inquired their meaning and translated inquired their meaning and translated inquired their meaning and translated them. His manuscript was left with my them. His manuscript was left with my them. His manuscript was left with my grandfather Dropay and is now in my grandfather Dropay and is now in my grandfather Dropay and is now in my possession. In the division of the earth possession. In the division of the earth possession. In the division of the earth Poseidon obtained as his portion the Poseidon obtained as his portion the Poseidon obtained as his portion the island of Atlantis, and there he began island of Atlantis, and there he began island of Atlantis, and there he began children whose mother was immortal. children whose mother was immortal. children whose mother was immortal. Towards the sea and in the center of the Towards the sea and in the center of the Towards the sea and in the center of the island there was a very fair and fertile island there was a very fair and fertile island there was a very fair and fertile plain and near the center about 50 plain and near the center about 50 plain and near the center about 50 stadia from the plain there was a low stadia from the plain there was a low stadia from the plain there was a low mountain in which dwelt a man named mountain in which dwelt a man named mountain in which dwelt a man named Ebanor and his wife Lucipi and their Ebanor and his wife Lucipi and their Ebanor and his wife Lucipi and their daughter Kleto of whom Poseidon became daughter Kleto of whom Poseidon became daughter Kleto of whom Poseidon became enamored. He to secure his love enclosed enamored. He to secure his love enclosed enamored. He to secure his love enclosed the mountain with rings or zones varying the mountain with rings or zones varying the mountain with rings or zones varying in size, two of land and three of sea, in size, two of land and three of sea, in size, two of land and three of sea, which his divine power readily enabled which his divine power readily enabled which his divine power readily enabled him to excavate and fashion. And as him to excavate and fashion. And as him to excavate and fashion. And as there was no shipping in those days, no there was no shipping in those days, no there was no shipping in those days, no man could get into the place. To the man could get into the place. To the man could get into the place. To the interior island he conveyed under the interior island he conveyed under the interior island he conveyed under the earth springs of water, hot and cold, earth springs of water, hot and cold, earth springs of water, hot and cold, and supplied the land with all things and supplied the land with all things and supplied the land with all things needed for the life of man. Here he needed for the life of man. Here he needed for the life of man. Here he begat a family consisting of five pairs begat a family consisting of five pairs begat a family consisting of five pairs of twin male children. The eldest was of twin male children. The eldest was of twin male children. The eldest was Atlas and him he made king of the center Atlas and him he made king of the center Atlas and him he made king of the center island while two his twin brother Umalis island while two his twin brother Umalis island while two his twin brother Umalis or or or Gdyrus. He assigned that part of the Gdyrus. He assigned that part of the Gdyrus. He assigned that part of the country which was nearest the straits.

country which was nearest the straits. country which was nearest the straits. The other brothers he made chiefs over The other brothers he made chiefs over The other brothers he made chiefs over the rest of the island and their kingdom the rest of the island and their kingdom the rest of the island and their kingdom extended as far as Egypt and Terrenia. extended as far as Egypt and Terrenia. extended as far as Egypt and Terrenia. Now Atlas had a fair posterity and great Now Atlas had a fair posterity and great Now Atlas had a fair posterity and great treasures derived from mines. Among them treasures derived from mines. Among them treasures derived from mines. Among them that precious metal or a keelkum, and that precious metal or a keelkum, and that precious metal or a keelkum, and there was abundance of wood and herds of there was abundance of wood and herds of there was abundance of wood and herds of elephants and pastures for animals of elephants and pastures for animals of elephants and pastures for animals of all kinds and fragrant herbs and grasses all kinds and fragrant herbs and grasses all kinds and fragrant herbs and grasses and trees bearing fruit. These they used and trees bearing fruit. These they used and trees bearing fruit. These they used and employed themselves in constructing and employed themselves in constructing and employed themselves in constructing their temples and palaces and harbors their temples and palaces and harbors their temples and palaces and harbors and docks in the following manner. and docks in the following manner. and docks in the following manner. First, they bridged over the zones of First, they bridged over the zones of First, they bridged over the zones of sea and made a way to and from the royal sea and made a way to and from the royal sea and made a way to and from the royal palace which they built in the central palace which they built in the central palace which they built in the central island. This ancient palace was island. This ancient palace was island. This ancient palace was ornamented by successive generations and ornamented by successive generations and ornamented by successive generations and they dug a canal which passed through they dug a canal which passed through they dug a canal which passed through the zones of land from the island to the the zones of land from the island to the the zones of land from the island to the sea. The zones of earth were surrounded sea. The zones of earth were surrounded sea. The zones of earth were surrounded by walls made of stones of diverse by walls made of stones of diverse by walls made of stones of diverse colors, black and white and red, which colors, black and white and red, which colors, black and white and red, which they sometimes intermingled for the sake they sometimes intermingled for the sake they sometimes intermingled for the sake of ornament, and as they quarried, they of ornament, and as they quarried, they of ornament, and as they quarried, they hollowed out beneath the edges of the hollowed out beneath the edges of the hollowed out beneath the edges of the zones double docks having roofs of rock.

zones double docks having roofs of rock. zones double docks having roofs of rock. The outermost of the walls was coated The outermost of the walls was coated The outermost of the walls was coated with brass, the second with tin, and the with brass, the second with tin, and the with brass, the second with tin, and the third, which was the wall of the third, which was the wall of the third, which was the wall of the citadel, flashed with the red light of citadel, flashed with the red light of citadel, flashed with the red light of orical. In the interior of the citadel orical. In the interior of the citadel orical. In the interior of the citadel was a holy temple dedicated to Plato and was a holy temple dedicated to Plato and was a holy temple dedicated to Plato and Poseidon and surrounded by an enclosure Poseidon and surrounded by an enclosure Poseidon and surrounded by an enclosure of gold. And there was Poseidon's own of gold. And there was Poseidon's own of gold. And there was Poseidon's own temple which was covered with silver and temple which was covered with silver and temple which was covered with silver and the pinnacles with gold. The roof was the pinnacles with gold. The roof was the pinnacles with gold. The roof was ivory adorned with gold and silver and ivory adorned with gold and silver and ivory adorned with gold and silver and oricalum and the rest of the interior oricalum and the rest of the interior oricalum and the rest of the interior was lined with oricalum. Within was an was lined with oricalum. Within was an was lined with oricalum. Within was an image of the god standing in a chariot image of the god standing in a chariot image of the god standing in a chariot drawn by six winged horses and touching drawn by six winged horses and touching drawn by six winged horses and touching the roof with his head. Around him were the roof with his head. Around him were the roof with his head. Around him were a hund nariats riding on dolphins. a hund nariats riding on dolphins. a hund nariats riding on dolphins. Outside the temple were placed golden Outside the temple were placed golden Outside the temple were placed golden statues of all the descendants of the 10 statues of all the descendants of the 10 statues of all the descendants of the 10 kings and of their wives. There was an kings and of their wives. There was an kings and of their wives. There was an altar too and there were palaces altar too and there were palaces altar too and there were palaces corresponding to the greatness and glory corresponding to the greatness and glory corresponding to the greatness and glory both of the kingdom and of the both of the kingdom and of the both of the kingdom and of the temple. Also there were fountains of hot temple. Also there were fountains of hot temple. Also there were fountains of hot and cold water and suitable buildings and cold water and suitable buildings and cold water and suitable buildings surrounding them and trees and there surrounding them and trees and there surrounding them and trees and there were baths both of the kings and of were baths both of the kings and of were baths both of the kings and of private individuals and separate baths private individuals and separate baths private individuals and separate baths for women and also for cattle. The water for women and also for cattle. The water for women and also for cattle. The water from the baths was carried to the grove from the baths was carried to the grove from the baths was carried to the grove of Poseidon and by aqueducts over the of Poseidon and by aqueducts over the of Poseidon and by aqueducts over the bridges to the outer circles. And there bridges to the outer circles. And there bridges to the outer circles. And there were temples in the zones, and in the were temples in the zones, and in the were temples in the zones, and in the larger of the two, there was a raceourse larger of the two, there was a raceourse larger of the two, there was a raceourse for horses, which ran all round the

for horses, which ran all round the for horses, which ran all round the island. The guards were distributed in island. The guards were distributed in island. The guards were distributed in the zones according to the trust reposed the zones according to the trust reposed the zones according to the trust reposed in them. The most trusted of them were in them. The most trusted of them were in them. The most trusted of them were stationed in the citadel. The docks were stationed in the citadel. The docks were stationed in the citadel. The docks were full of triams and stores. The land full of triams and stores. The land full of triams and stores. The land between the harbor and the sea was between the harbor and the sea was between the harbor and the sea was surrounded by a wall and was crowded surrounded by a wall and was crowded surrounded by a wall and was crowded with dwellings, and the harbor and canal with dwellings, and the harbor and canal with dwellings, and the harbor and canal resounded with the den of human voices. resounded with the den of human voices. resounded with the den of human voices. The plane around the city was highly The plane around the city was highly The plane around the city was highly cultivated and sheltered from the north cultivated and sheltered from the north cultivated and sheltered from the north by mountains. It was oblong, and where, by mountains. It was oblong, and where, by mountains. It was oblong, and where, falling out of the straight line falling out of the straight line falling out of the straight line followed the circular ditch, which was followed the circular ditch, which was followed the circular ditch, which was of an incredible depth. This depth of an incredible depth. This depth of an incredible depth. This depth received the streams which came down received the streams which came down received the streams which came down from the mountains as well as the canals from the mountains as well as the canals from the mountains as well as the canals of the interior and found a way to the of the interior and found a way to the of the interior and found a way to the sea. The entire country was divided into sea. The entire country was divided into sea. The entire country was divided into 60,000 lots, each of which was a square 60,000 lots, each of which was a square 60,000 lots, each of which was a square of 10 stadia. And the owner of a lot was of 10 stadia. And the owner of a lot was of 10 stadia. And the owner of a lot was bound to furnish the sixth part of a war bound to furnish the sixth part of a war bound to furnish the sixth part of a war chariot so as to make up 10,000 chariot so as to make up 10,000 chariot so as to make up 10,000 chariots, two horses and riders upon chariots, two horses and riders upon chariots, two horses and riders upon them, a pair of chariot horses without a them, a pair of chariot horses without a them, a pair of chariot horses without a seat, and an attendant and charioteer, seat, and an attendant and charioteer, seat, and an attendant and charioteer, two hoplights, two archers, two two hoplights, two archers, two two hoplights, two archers, two slingers, three stone shooters, three slingers, three stone shooters, three slingers, three stone shooters, three javelin men, and four sailors to make up javelin men, and four sailors to make up javelin men, and four sailors to make up the complement of,200 ships.

the complement of,200 ships. the complement of,200 ships. Each of the 10 kings was absolute in his Each of the 10 kings was absolute in his Each of the 10 kings was absolute in his own city and kingdom. The relations of own city and kingdom. The relations of own city and kingdom. The relations of the different governments to one another the different governments to one another the different governments to one another were determined by the injunctions of were determined by the injunctions of were determined by the injunctions of Poseidon which had been inscribed by the Poseidon which had been inscribed by the Poseidon which had been inscribed by the first kings on a column of Oricelum in first kings on a column of Oricelum in first kings on a column of Oricelum in the temple of Poseidon at which the the temple of Poseidon at which the the temple of Poseidon at which the kings and princes gathered together and kings and princes gathered together and kings and princes gathered together and held a festival every 5th and every held a festival every 5th and every held a festival every 5th and every sixth year alternately. Around the sixth year alternately. Around the sixth year alternately. Around the temple ranged the bowls of Poseidon, one temple ranged the bowls of Poseidon, one temple ranged the bowls of Poseidon, one of which the 10 kings caught and of which the 10 kings caught and of which the 10 kings caught and sacrificed, shedding the blood of the sacrificed, shedding the blood of the sacrificed, shedding the blood of the victim over the inscription, and vowing victim over the inscription, and vowing victim over the inscription, and vowing not to transgress the laws of their not to transgress the laws of their not to transgress the laws of their father, Poseidon. When night came, they father, Poseidon. When night came, they father, Poseidon. When night came, they put on azure robes and gave judgment put on azure robes and gave judgment put on azure robes and gave judgment against offenders. The most important of against offenders. The most important of against offenders. The most important of their laws related to their dealings their laws related to their dealings their laws related to their dealings with one another. They were not to take with one another. They were not to take with one another. They were not to take up arms against one another and were to up arms against one another and were to up arms against one another and were to come to the rescue if any of their come to the rescue if any of their come to the rescue if any of their brethren were attacked. They were to brethren were attacked. They were to brethren were attacked. They were to deliberate in common about war and the deliberate in common about war and the deliberate in common about war and the king was not to have the power of life king was not to have the power of life king was not to have the power of life and death over his kinsmen unless he had and death over his kinsmen unless he had and death over his kinsmen unless he had the ascent of the the ascent of the the ascent of the majority. For many generations, as majority. For many generations, as majority. For many generations, as tradition tells, the people of Atlantis tradition tells, the people of Atlantis tradition tells, the people of Atlantis were obedient to the laws and to the were obedient to the laws and to the were obedient to the laws and to the gods and practiced gentleness and wisdom gods and practiced gentleness and wisdom gods and practiced gentleness and wisdom in their intercourse with one another.

in their intercourse with one another. in their intercourse with one another. They knew that they could only have the They knew that they could only have the They knew that they could only have the true use of riches by not caring about true use of riches by not caring about true use of riches by not caring about them. But gradually the divine portion them. But gradually the divine portion them. But gradually the divine portion of their souls became diluted with too of their souls became diluted with too of their souls became diluted with too much of the mortal ad mixture and they much of the mortal ad mixture and they much of the mortal ad mixture and they began to degenerate. Though to the began to degenerate. Though to the began to degenerate. Though to the outward eye they appeared glorious as outward eye they appeared glorious as outward eye they appeared glorious as ever at the very time when they were ever at the very time when they were ever at the very time when they were filled with all iniquity. The all-seeing filled with all iniquity. The all-seeing filled with all iniquity. The all-seeing Zeus wanting to punish them held a Zeus wanting to punish them held a Zeus wanting to punish them held a council of the gods and when he had council of the gods and when he had council of the gods and when he had called them together he spoke as called them together he spoke as called them together he spoke as follows. No one knew better than Plato follows. No one knew better than Plato follows. No one knew better than Plato how to invent a noble lie. Observe one how to invent a noble lie. Observe one how to invent a noble lie. Observe one the innocent declaration of Socrates the innocent declaration of Socrates the innocent declaration of Socrates that the truth of the story is a great that the truth of the story is a great that the truth of the story is a great advantage. Two the manner in which advantage. Two the manner in which advantage. Two the manner in which traditional names and indications of traditional names and indications of traditional names and indications of geography are intermingled. Why here be geography are intermingled. Why here be geography are intermingled. Why here be truths. Three, the extreme minuteness truths. Three, the extreme minuteness truths. Three, the extreme minuteness with which the numbers are given as in with which the numbers are given as in with which the numbers are given as in the old epic poetry. Four, the ingenious the old epic poetry. Four, the ingenious the old epic poetry. Four, the ingenious reason assigned for the Greek names reason assigned for the Greek names reason assigned for the Greek names occurring in the Egyptian tale. Five, occurring in the Egyptian tale. Five, occurring in the Egyptian tale. Five, the remark that the armed statue of the remark that the armed statue of the remark that the armed statue of Athena indicated the common warrior life Athena indicated the common warrior life Athena indicated the common warrior life of men and women. Six, the particularity of men and women. Six, the particularity of men and women. Six, the particularity with which the third deluge before that with which the third deluge before that with which the third deluge before that of Jacal is affirmed to have been the of Jacal is affirmed to have been the of Jacal is affirmed to have been the great destruction.

great destruction. great destruction. Seven, the happy guess that great Seven, the happy guess that great Seven, the happy guess that great geological changes had been affected by geological changes had been affected by geological changes had been affected by water. Eight, the indulgence of the water. Eight, the indulgence of the water. Eight, the indulgence of the prejudice against sailing beyond the prejudice against sailing beyond the prejudice against sailing beyond the columns, and the popular belief of the columns, and the popular belief of the columns, and the popular belief of the shallowness of the ocean in that part. shallowness of the ocean in that part. shallowness of the ocean in that part. Nine, the confession that the depth of Nine, the confession that the depth of Nine, the confession that the depth of the ditch in the island of Atlantis was the ditch in the island of Atlantis was the ditch in the island of Atlantis was not to be believed. And yet he could not to be believed. And yet he could not to be believed. And yet he could only repeat what he had heard, compared only repeat what he had heard, compared only repeat what he had heard, compared with the statement made in an earlier with the statement made in an earlier with the statement made in an earlier passage that Poseidon, being a god, passage that Poseidon, being a god, passage that Poseidon, being a god, found no difficulty in contriving the found no difficulty in contriving the found no difficulty in contriving the water supply of the central island. 10. water supply of the central island. 10. water supply of the central island. 10. the mention of the old rivalry of the mention of the old rivalry of the mention of the old rivalry of Poseidon and Athena and the creation of Poseidon and Athena and the creation of Poseidon and Athena and the creation of the first inhabitants out of the soil. the first inhabitants out of the soil. the first inhabitants out of the soil. Plato here as elsewhere ingeniously Plato here as elsewhere ingeniously Plato here as elsewhere ingeniously gives the impression that he is telling gives the impression that he is telling gives the impression that he is telling the truth which mythology had the truth which mythology had the truth which mythology had corrupted. The world like a child has corrupted. The world like a child has corrupted. The world like a child has readily and for the most part readily and for the most part readily and for the most part unhesitatingly accepted the tale of the unhesitatingly accepted the tale of the unhesitatingly accepted the tale of the island of Atlantis. In modern times, we island of Atlantis. In modern times, we island of Atlantis. In modern times, we hardly seek for traces of the submerged hardly seek for traces of the submerged hardly seek for traces of the submerged continent, but even Mr. Gro is inclined continent, but even Mr. Gro is inclined continent, but even Mr. Gro is inclined to believe in the Egyptian poem of to believe in the Egyptian poem of to believe in the Egyptian poem of Solon, of which there is no evidence in Solon, of which there is no evidence in Solon, of which there is no evidence in antiquity, while others, like Martin antiquity, while others, like Martin antiquity, while others, like Martin discuss the Egyptian origin of the discuss the Egyptian origin of the discuss the Egyptian origin of the legend, or like M. De Humboldt, whom he legend, or like M. De Humboldt, whom he legend, or like M. De Humboldt, whom he quotes, are disposed to find in it a quotes, are disposed to find in it a quotes, are disposed to find in it a vestage of a widely spread tradition.

vestage of a widely spread tradition. vestage of a widely spread tradition. Others adopting a different vein of Others adopting a different vein of Others adopting a different vein of reflection regard the island of Atlantis reflection regard the island of Atlantis reflection regard the island of Atlantis as the anticipation of a still greater as the anticipation of a still greater as the anticipation of a still greater island, the continent of America. The island, the continent of America. The island, the continent of America. The tale, says M. Martin, rests upon the tale, says M. Martin, rests upon the tale, says M. Martin, rests upon the authority of the Egyptian priests, and authority of the Egyptian priests, and authority of the Egyptian priests, and the Egyptian priests took a pleasure in the Egyptian priests took a pleasure in the Egyptian priests took a pleasure in deceiving the Greeks. He never appears deceiving the Greeks. He never appears deceiving the Greeks. He never appears to suspect that there is a greater to suspect that there is a greater to suspect that there is a greater deceiver or magician than the Egyptian deceiver or magician than the Egyptian deceiver or magician than the Egyptian priests, that is to say Plato himself, priests, that is to say Plato himself, priests, that is to say Plato himself, from the dominion of whose genius, the from the dominion of whose genius, the from the dominion of whose genius, the critic and natural philosopher of modern critic and natural philosopher of modern critic and natural philosopher of modern times are not wholly emancipated, times are not wholly emancipated, times are not wholly emancipated, although worthless in respect of any although worthless in respect of any although worthless in respect of any result which can be attained by them. result which can be attained by them. result which can be attained by them. Discussions like those of M. Martin Discussions like those of M. Martin Discussions like those of M. Martin parenthesis to me and a parenthesis to me and a parenthesis to me and a parenthesis have an interest of their parenthesis have an interest of their parenthesis have an interest of their own and may be compared to the similar own and may be compared to the similar own and may be compared to the similar discussions regarding the lost tribes discussions regarding the lost tribes discussions regarding the lost tribes parenthesis second estrus end of parenthesis second estrus end of parenthesis second estrus end of parenthesis as showing how the chance parenthesis as showing how the chance parenthesis as showing how the chance word of some poet or philosopher has word of some poet or philosopher has word of some poet or philosopher has given birth to antless religious or given birth to antless religious or given birth to antless religious or historical inquiries parenthesis see historical inquiries parenthesis see historical inquiries parenthesis see introduction to the timas end of introduction to the timas end of introduction to the timas end of parenthesis parenthesis parenthesis In contrasting the small Greek city In contrasting the small Greek city In contrasting the small Greek city numbering about 20,000 inhabitants with numbering about 20,000 inhabitants with numbering about 20,000 inhabitants with the barbaric greatness of the island of the barbaric greatness of the island of the barbaric greatness of the island of Atlantis, Plato probably intended to Atlantis, Plato probably intended to Atlantis, Plato probably intended to show that a state such as the ideal show that a state such as the ideal show that a state such as the ideal Athens was invincible though matched Athens was invincible though matched Athens was invincible though matched against any number of opponents

against any number of opponents against any number of opponents parenthesis CP republic end of parenthesis CP republic end of parenthesis CP republic end of parenthesis. Even in a great empire parenthesis. Even in a great empire parenthesis. Even in a great empire there might be a degree of virtue and there might be a degree of virtue and there might be a degree of virtue and justice such as the Greeks believed to justice such as the Greeks believed to justice such as the Greeks believed to have existed under the sway of the first have existed under the sway of the first have existed under the sway of the first Persian kings. But all such empires were Persian kings. But all such empires were Persian kings. But all such empires were liable to degenerate and soon incurred liable to degenerate and soon incurred liable to degenerate and soon incurred the anger of the gods. Their oriental the anger of the gods. Their oriental the anger of the gods. Their oriental wealth and splendor of gold and silver wealth and splendor of gold and silver wealth and splendor of gold and silver and variety of colors seemed also to be and variety of colors seemed also to be and variety of colors seemed also to be at variance with the simplicity of Greek at variance with the simplicity of Greek at variance with the simplicity of Greek notions. In the island of Atlantis, notions. In the island of Atlantis, notions. In the island of Atlantis, Plato is describing a sort of Babylonian Plato is describing a sort of Babylonian Plato is describing a sort of Babylonian or Egyptian city to which he opposes the or Egyptian city to which he opposes the or Egyptian city to which he opposes the frugal life of the true Helenic citizen. frugal life of the true Helenic citizen. frugal life of the true Helenic citizen. It is remarkable that in his brief It is remarkable that in his brief It is remarkable that in his brief sketch of them, he idealizes the husband sketch of them, he idealizes the husband sketch of them, he idealizes the husband men who are lovers of honor and true men who are lovers of honor and true men who are lovers of honor and true husband men, as well as the warriors who husband men, as well as the warriors who husband men, as well as the warriors who are his sole concern in the republic. are his sole concern in the republic. are his sole concern in the republic. and that though he speaks of the common and that though he speaks of the common and that though he speaks of the common pursuits of men and women, he says pursuits of men and women, he says pursuits of men and women, he says nothing of the community of wives and nothing of the community of wives and nothing of the community of wives and children. It is singular that Plato children. It is singular that Plato children. It is singular that Plato should have prefixed the most detested should have prefixed the most detested should have prefixed the most detested of Athenian names to this dialogue and of Athenian names to this dialogue and of Athenian names to this dialogue and even more singular that he should have even more singular that he should have even more singular that he should have put into the mouth of Socrates a put into the mouth of Socrates a put into the mouth of Socrates a panageric on him parenthesis end of panageric on him parenthesis end of panageric on him parenthesis end of parenthesis. Yet we know that his parenthesis. Yet we know that his parenthesis. Yet we know that his character was accounted infamous by character was accounted infamous by character was accounted infamous by Zenapon and that the mere acquaintance Zenapon and that the mere acquaintance Zenapon and that the mere acquaintance with him was made a subject of with him was made a subject of with him was made a subject of accusation against accusation against accusation against Socrates. We can only infer that in this Socrates. We can only infer that in this Socrates. We can only infer that in this and perhaps in some other cases Plato's

and perhaps in some other cases Plato's and perhaps in some other cases Plato's characters have no reference to the characters have no reference to the characters have no reference to the actual facts. The desire to do honor to actual facts. The desire to do honor to actual facts. The desire to do honor to his own family and the connection with his own family and the connection with his own family and the connection with Solon may have suggested the Solon may have suggested the Solon may have suggested the introduction of his name. Why the critus introduction of his name. Why the critus introduction of his name. Why the critus was never completed whether from was never completed whether from was never completed whether from accident or from advancing age or from a accident or from advancing age or from a accident or from advancing age or from a sense of the artistic difficulty of the sense of the artistic difficulty of the sense of the artistic difficulty of the design cannot be design cannot be design cannot be determined. End of part one. Recording determined. End of part one. Recording determined. End of part one. Recording by Kevin Johnson. Part two, Part two, Cryas by Cryas by Cryas by Plato, translated by Benjamin Joet. This Plato, translated by Benjamin Joet. This Plato, translated by Benjamin Joet. This LibriVox recording is in the public LibriVox recording is in the public LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Kevin domain. Recording by Kevin domain. Recording by Kevin Johnson. Johnson. Johnson. Critius. Persons of the dialogue. Critius. Persons of the dialogue. Critius. Persons of the dialogue. Critius.

Critius. Critius. Hermocrates. Hermocrates. Hermocrates. Tamias. Socrates. Tamias. How thankful I am. Socrates. Tamias. How thankful I am. Socrates that I have arrived at last and Socrates that I have arrived at last and Socrates that I have arrived at last and like a weary traveler after a long like a weary traveler after a long like a weary traveler after a long journey may be at rest. And I pray the journey may be at rest. And I pray the journey may be at rest. And I pray the being who always was of old and has now being who always was of old and has now being who always was of old and has now been by me revealed to grant that my been by me revealed to grant that my been by me revealed to grant that my words may endure in so far as they have words may endure in so far as they have words may endure in so far as they have been spoken truly and acceptably to him. been spoken truly and acceptably to him. been spoken truly and acceptably to him. But if unintentionally I have said But if unintentionally I have said But if unintentionally I have said anything wrong, I pray that he will anything wrong, I pray that he will anything wrong, I pray that he will impose upon me a just retribution, and impose upon me a just retribution, and impose upon me a just retribution, and the just retribution of him who hes is the just retribution of him who hes is the just retribution of him who hes is that he should be set right. Wishing that he should be set right. Wishing that he should be set right. Wishing then to speak truly in future concerning then to speak truly in future concerning then to speak truly in future concerning the generation of the gods. I pray him the generation of the gods. I pray him the generation of the gods. I pray him to give me knowledge, which of all to give me knowledge, which of all to give me knowledge, which of all medicines is the most perfect and best. medicines is the most perfect and best. medicines is the most perfect and best. And now having offered my prayer, I And now having offered my prayer, I And now having offered my prayer, I deliver up the argument to Critius who deliver up the argument to Critius who deliver up the argument to Critius who is to speak next according to our is to speak next according to our is to speak next according to our agreement. Parenthesis Tmus end of agreement. Parenthesis Tmus end of agreement. Parenthesis Tmus end of parenthesis. Critius and I, Tamias parenthesis. Critius and I, Tamias parenthesis. Critius and I, Tamias accept the trust. And as you at first accept the trust. And as you at first accept the trust. And as you at first said that you were going to speak of said that you were going to speak of said that you were going to speak of high matters and begged that some high matters and begged that some high matters and begged that some forbearance might be shown to you, I too forbearance might be shown to you, I too forbearance might be shown to you, I too asked the same or greater forbearance asked the same or greater forbearance asked the same or greater forbearance for what I am about to say. And although for what I am about to say. And although for what I am about to say. And although I very well know that my request may I very well know that my request may I very well know that my request may appear to be somewhat ambitious and

appear to be somewhat ambitious and appear to be somewhat ambitious and discourteous, I must make it discourteous, I must make it discourteous, I must make it nevertheless. For will any man of sense nevertheless. For will any man of sense nevertheless. For will any man of sense deny that you have spoken well? I can deny that you have spoken well? I can deny that you have spoken well? I can only attempt to show that I ought to only attempt to show that I ought to only attempt to show that I ought to have more indulgence than you, because have more indulgence than you, because have more indulgence than you, because my theme is more difficult, and I shall my theme is more difficult, and I shall my theme is more difficult, and I shall argue that to seem to speak well of the argue that to seem to speak well of the argue that to seem to speak well of the gods to men is far easier than to speak gods to men is far easier than to speak gods to men is far easier than to speak well of men to men. For the inexperience well of men to men. For the inexperience well of men to men. For the inexperience and utter ignorance of his hearers about and utter ignorance of his hearers about and utter ignorance of his hearers about any subject is a great assistance to him any subject is a great assistance to him any subject is a great assistance to him who has to speak of it, and we know how who has to speak of it, and we know how who has to speak of it, and we know how ignorant we are concerning the gods. But ignorant we are concerning the gods. But ignorant we are concerning the gods. But I should like to make my meaning clearer I should like to make my meaning clearer I should like to make my meaning clearer if you will follow me. All that is said if you will follow me. All that is said if you will follow me. All that is said by any of us can only be imitation and by any of us can only be imitation and by any of us can only be imitation and representation. For if we consider the representation. For if we consider the representation. For if we consider the likenesses which painters make of likenesses which painters make of likenesses which painters make of bodies, divine and heavenly, and the bodies, divine and heavenly, and the bodies, divine and heavenly, and the different degrees of gratification with different degrees of gratification with different degrees of gratification with which the eye of the spectator receives which the eye of the spectator receives which the eye of the spectator receives them, we shall see that we are satisfied them, we shall see that we are satisfied them, we shall see that we are satisfied with the artist who is able in any with the artist who is able in any with the artist who is able in any degree to imitate the earth and its degree to imitate the earth and its degree to imitate the earth and its mountains and the rivers and the woods mountains and the rivers and the woods mountains and the rivers and the woods and the universe and the things that are and the universe and the things that are and the universe and the things that are and move therein. and further that and move therein. and further that and move therein. and further that knowing nothing precise about such knowing nothing precise about such knowing nothing precise about such matters, we do not examine or analyze matters, we do not examine or analyze matters, we do not examine or analyze the painting. All that is required is a the painting. All that is required is a the painting. All that is required is a sort of indistinct and deceptive mode of sort of indistinct and deceptive mode of sort of indistinct and deceptive mode of shadowing them forth. But when a person shadowing them forth. But when a person shadowing them forth. But when a person endeavors to paint the human form, we endeavors to paint the human form, we endeavors to paint the human form, we are quick at finding out defects, and are quick at finding out defects, and are quick at finding out defects, and our familiar knowledge makes us severe

our familiar knowledge makes us severe our familiar knowledge makes us severe judges of any one who does not render judges of any one who does not render judges of any one who does not render every point of similarity. every point of similarity. every point of similarity. And we may observe the same thing to And we may observe the same thing to And we may observe the same thing to happen in discourse. We are satisfied happen in discourse. We are satisfied happen in discourse. We are satisfied with the picture of divine and heavenly with the picture of divine and heavenly with the picture of divine and heavenly things which has very little likeness to things which has very little likeness to things which has very little likeness to them. But we are more precise in our them. But we are more precise in our them. But we are more precise in our criticism of mortal and human things. criticism of mortal and human things. criticism of mortal and human things. Wherefore, if at the moment of speaking Wherefore, if at the moment of speaking Wherefore, if at the moment of speaking I cannot suitably express my meaning, I cannot suitably express my meaning, I cannot suitably express my meaning, you must excuse me considering that to you must excuse me considering that to you must excuse me considering that to form approved likenesses of human things form approved likenesses of human things form approved likenesses of human things is the reverse of easy. That is what I is the reverse of easy. That is what I is the reverse of easy. That is what I want to suggest to you and at the same want to suggest to you and at the same want to suggest to you and at the same time to beg Socrates that I may have not time to beg Socrates that I may have not time to beg Socrates that I may have not less but more indulgence conceded to me less but more indulgence conceded to me less but more indulgence conceded to me in what I am about to say. Which favor? in what I am about to say. Which favor? in what I am about to say. Which favor? If I am right in asking, I hope that you If I am right in asking, I hope that you If I am right in asking, I hope that you will be ready to will be ready to will be ready to grant Socrates. Certainly, Citrius, we grant Socrates. Certainly, Citrius, we grant Socrates. Certainly, Citrius, we will grant your request, and we will will grant your request, and we will will grant your request, and we will grant the same by anticipation to grant the same by anticipation to grant the same by anticipation to Hermocrates, as well as to you and to Hermocrates, as well as to you and to Hermocrates, as well as to you and to myas. For I have no doubt that when his myas. For I have no doubt that when his myas. For I have no doubt that when his turn comes a little while hence, he will turn comes a little while hence, he will turn comes a little while hence, he will make the same request which you have make the same request which you have make the same request which you have made. In order then that he may provide made. In order then that he may provide made. In order then that he may provide himself with a fresh beginning and not himself with a fresh beginning and not himself with a fresh beginning and not be compelled to say the same things over be compelled to say the same things over be compelled to say the same things over again, let him understand that the again, let him understand that the again, let him understand that the indulgence is already extended by indulgence is already extended by indulgence is already extended by anticipation to him. And now, friend anticipation to him. And now, friend anticipation to him. And now, friend Critius, I will announce to you the Critius, I will announce to you the Critius, I will announce to you the judgment of the theater. They are of

judgment of the theater. They are of judgment of the theater. They are of opinion that the last performer was opinion that the last performer was opinion that the last performer was wonderfully successful and that you will wonderfully successful and that you will wonderfully successful and that you will need a great deal of indulgence before need a great deal of indulgence before need a great deal of indulgence before you will be able to take his place. you will be able to take his place. you will be able to take his place. Hermocrates, the warning Socrates, which Hermocrates, the warning Socrates, which Hermocrates, the warning Socrates, which you have addressed to him, I must also you have addressed to him, I must also you have addressed to him, I must also take to myself. But remember, criedus, take to myself. But remember, criedus, take to myself. But remember, criedus, that faint heart never yet raised a that faint heart never yet raised a that faint heart never yet raised a trophy, and therefore you must go and trophy, and therefore you must go and trophy, and therefore you must go and attack the argument like a man. First attack the argument like a man. First attack the argument like a man. First invoke Apollo and the muses, and then invoke Apollo and the muses, and then invoke Apollo and the muses, and then let us hear you sound the praises and let us hear you sound the praises and let us hear you sound the praises and show forth the virtues of your ancient show forth the virtues of your ancient show forth the virtues of your ancient citizens. citizens. citizens. Critius friend Hermocrates, you who are Critius friend Hermocrates, you who are Critius friend Hermocrates, you who are stationed last and have another in front stationed last and have another in front stationed last and have another in front of you have not lost heart as yet. The of you have not lost heart as yet. The of you have not lost heart as yet. The gravity of the situation will soon be gravity of the situation will soon be gravity of the situation will soon be revealed to you. Meanwhile, I accept revealed to you. Meanwhile, I accept revealed to you. Meanwhile, I accept your exhortations and encouragements. your exhortations and encouragements. your exhortations and encouragements. But besides the gods and goddesses whom But besides the gods and goddesses whom But besides the gods and goddesses whom you have mentioned, I would specially you have mentioned, I would specially you have mentioned, I would specially invoke Namosin, for all the important invoke Namosin, for all the important invoke Namosin, for all the important parts of my discourse is dependent on parts of my discourse is dependent on parts of my discourse is dependent on her favor. And if I can recollect and her favor. And if I can recollect and her favor. And if I can recollect and recite enough of what was said by the recite enough of what was said by the recite enough of what was said by the priests and brought hither by Solon, I priests and brought hither by Solon, I priests and brought hither by Solon, I doubt not that I shall satisfy the doubt not that I shall satisfy the doubt not that I shall satisfy the requirements of this theater. And now, requirements of this theater. And now, requirements of this theater. And now, making no more excuses, I will proceed.

Let me begin by observing first of all Let me begin by observing first of all that 9,000 was the sum of years which that 9,000 was the sum of years which that 9,000 was the sum of years which had elapsed since the war which was said had elapsed since the war which was said had elapsed since the war which was said to have taken place between those who to have taken place between those who to have taken place between those who dwelt outside the pillars of Heracles dwelt outside the pillars of Heracles dwelt outside the pillars of Heracles and all who dwelt within them. This war and all who dwelt within them. This war and all who dwelt within them. This war I am going to describe of the combatants I am going to describe of the combatants I am going to describe of the combatants on the one side the city of Athens was on the one side the city of Athens was on the one side the city of Athens was reported to have been the leader and to reported to have been the leader and to reported to have been the leader and to have fought out the war. The combatants have fought out the war. The combatants have fought out the war. The combatants on the other side were commanded by the on the other side were commanded by the on the other side were commanded by the kings of Atlantis, which as I was saying kings of Atlantis, which as I was saying kings of Atlantis, which as I was saying was an island greater in extent than was an island greater in extent than was an island greater in extent than Libya and Asia, and when afterward sunk Libya and Asia, and when afterward sunk Libya and Asia, and when afterward sunk by an earthquake, became an impassible by an earthquake, became an impassible by an earthquake, became an impassible barrier of mud to voyagers sailing from barrier of mud to voyagers sailing from barrier of mud to voyagers sailing from hence to any part of the ocean. The hence to any part of the ocean. The hence to any part of the ocean. The progress of the history will unfold. the progress of the history will unfold. the progress of the history will unfold. the various nations of barbarians and various nations of barbarians and various nations of barbarians and families of Helens which then existed as families of Helens which then existed as families of Helens which then existed as they successfively appear on the scene. they successfively appear on the scene. they successfively appear on the scene. But I must describe first of all the But I must describe first of all the But I must describe first of all the Athenians of that day and their enemies Athenians of that day and their enemies Athenians of that day and their enemies who fought with them and then the who fought with them and then the who fought with them and then the respective powers and governments of the respective powers and governments of the respective powers and governments of the two kingdoms. Let us give the precedents two kingdoms. Let us give the precedents two kingdoms. Let us give the precedents to to to Athens. In the days of old, the gods had Athens. In the days of old, the gods had Athens. In the days of old, the gods had the whole earth distributed among them the whole earth distributed among them the whole earth distributed among them by aotment. parenthesis cp politicus end by aotment. parenthesis cp politicus end by aotment. parenthesis cp politicus end of parenthesis. There was no quarreling.

of parenthesis. There was no quarreling. of parenthesis. There was no quarreling. For you cannot rightly suppose that the For you cannot rightly suppose that the For you cannot rightly suppose that the gods did not know what was proper for gods did not know what was proper for gods did not know what was proper for each of them to have or knowing this each of them to have or knowing this each of them to have or knowing this that they would seek to procure for that they would seek to procure for that they would seek to procure for themselves by contention that which more themselves by contention that which more themselves by contention that which more properly belonged to others. They all of properly belonged to others. They all of properly belonged to others. They all of them by just aortionment obtained what them by just aortionment obtained what them by just aortionment obtained what they wanted and people their own they wanted and people their own they wanted and people their own districts. And when they had people districts. And when they had people districts. And when they had people them, they tended us, their nursings and them, they tended us, their nursings and them, they tended us, their nursings and possessions, as shepherds tend their possessions, as shepherds tend their possessions, as shepherds tend their flocks, accepting only that they did not flocks, accepting only that they did not flocks, accepting only that they did not use blows or bodily force as shepherds use blows or bodily force as shepherds use blows or bodily force as shepherds do, but governed us like pilots from the do, but governed us like pilots from the do, but governed us like pilots from the stern of the vessel, which is an easy stern of the vessel, which is an easy stern of the vessel, which is an easy way of guiding animals, holding our way of guiding animals, holding our way of guiding animals, holding our souls by the rudder of persuasion, souls by the rudder of persuasion, souls by the rudder of persuasion, according to their own pleasure. Thus according to their own pleasure. Thus according to their own pleasure. Thus did they guide all mortal creatures. Now did they guide all mortal creatures. Now did they guide all mortal creatures. Now different gods had their allotments in different gods had their allotments in different gods had their allotments in different places which they set in different places which they set in different places which they set in order. Hesus and Atheni who were brother order. Hesus and Atheni who were brother order. Hesus and Atheni who were brother and sister and sprang from the same and sister and sprang from the same and sister and sprang from the same father having a common nature and being father having a common nature and being father having a common nature and being united also in the love of philosophy united also in the love of philosophy united also in the love of philosophy and art. Both obtained as their common and art. Both obtained as their common and art. Both obtained as their common portion this land which was naturally portion this land which was naturally portion this land which was naturally adapted for wisdom and virtue. And there adapted for wisdom and virtue. And there adapted for wisdom and virtue. And there they implanted brave children of the they implanted brave children of the they implanted brave children of the soil and put into their minds the order soil and put into their minds the order soil and put into their minds the order of government. Their names are of government. Their names are of government. Their names are preserved, but their actions have preserved, but their actions have preserved, but their actions have disappeared by reason of the destruction disappeared by reason of the destruction disappeared by reason of the destruction of those who received the tradition and

of those who received the tradition and of those who received the tradition and the lapse of ages. For when there were the lapse of ages. For when there were the lapse of ages. For when there were any survivors, as I have already said, any survivors, as I have already said, any survivors, as I have already said, they were men who dwelt in the they were men who dwelt in the they were men who dwelt in the mountains, and they were ignorant of the mountains, and they were ignorant of the mountains, and they were ignorant of the art of writing, and had heard only the art of writing, and had heard only the art of writing, and had heard only the names of the chiefs of the land, but names of the chiefs of the land, but names of the chiefs of the land, but very little about their actions. The very little about their actions. The very little about their actions. The names they were willing enough to give names they were willing enough to give names they were willing enough to give to their children, but the virtues and to their children, but the virtues and to their children, but the virtues and the laws of their predecessors they knew the laws of their predecessors they knew the laws of their predecessors they knew only by obscure traditions. And as they only by obscure traditions. And as they only by obscure traditions. And as they themselves and their children lacked for themselves and their children lacked for themselves and their children lacked for many generations the necessaries of many generations the necessaries of many generations the necessaries of life, they directed their attention to life, they directed their attention to life, they directed their attention to the supply of their wants. And of them the supply of their wants. And of them the supply of their wants. And of them they conversed to the neglect of events they conversed to the neglect of events they conversed to the neglect of events that had happened in times long past. that had happened in times long past. that had happened in times long past. For mythology and the enquiry into For mythology and the enquiry into For mythology and the enquiry into antiquity are first introduced into antiquity are first introduced into antiquity are first introduced into cities when they begin to have leisure. cities when they begin to have leisure. cities when they begin to have leisure. Parenthesis CP Aristotle metaphysics end Parenthesis CP Aristotle metaphysics end Parenthesis CP Aristotle metaphysics end of parenthesis. And when they see that of parenthesis. And when they see that of parenthesis. And when they see that the necessaries of life have already the necessaries of life have already the necessaries of life have already been provided but not before and this is been provided but not before and this is been provided but not before and this is the reason why the names of the ancients the reason why the names of the ancients the reason why the names of the ancients have been preserved to us and not their have been preserved to us and not their have been preserved to us and not their actions. This I infer because Solon said actions. This I infer because Solon said actions. This I infer because Solon said that the priests in their narrative of that the priests in their narrative of that the priests in their narrative of that war mention most of the names which that war mention most of the names which that war mention most of the names which are recorded prior to the time of are recorded prior to the time of are recorded prior to the time of Thesius such as Crops and Thesius such as Crops and Thesius such as Crops and Ericus and Ericus and Ericus and Ericthonius and

Ericthonius and Ericthonius and Ericthon and the names of the woman in Ericthon and the names of the woman in Ericthon and the names of the woman in like manner. Moreover, since military like manner. Moreover, since military like manner. Moreover, since military pursuits were then common to men and pursuits were then common to men and pursuits were then common to men and women, the men of those days, in women, the men of those days, in women, the men of those days, in accordance with the custom of the time, accordance with the custom of the time, accordance with the custom of the time, set up a figure and image of the goddess set up a figure and image of the goddess set up a figure and image of the goddess in full armor, to be a testimony that in full armor, to be a testimony that in full armor, to be a testimony that all animals which associate together, all animals which associate together, all animals which associate together, male as well as female, may, if they male as well as female, may, if they male as well as female, may, if they please, practice in common the virtue please, practice in common the virtue please, practice in common the virtue which belongs to them without which belongs to them without which belongs to them without distinction of distinction of distinction of effects. Now, the country was inhabited effects. Now, the country was inhabited effects. Now, the country was inhabited in those days by various classes of in those days by various classes of in those days by various classes of citizens. There were artisans and there citizens. There were artisans and there citizens. There were artisans and there were husbandmen, and there was also a were husbandmen, and there was also a were husbandmen, and there was also a warrior class originally set apart by warrior class originally set apart by warrior class originally set apart by divine men. The latter dwelt by divine men. The latter dwelt by divine men. The latter dwelt by themselves, and had all things suitable themselves, and had all things suitable themselves, and had all things suitable for nurture and education. Neither had for nurture and education. Neither had for nurture and education. Neither had any of them anything of their own, but any of them anything of their own, but any of them anything of their own, but they regarded all that they had as they regarded all that they had as they regarded all that they had as common property, nor did they claim to common property, nor did they claim to common property, nor did they claim to receive of the other citizens anything receive of the other citizens anything receive of the other citizens anything more than their necessary food. And they more than their necessary food. And they more than their necessary food. And they practiced all the pursuits which we practiced all the pursuits which we practiced all the pursuits which we yesterday described as those of our yesterday described as those of our yesterday described as those of our imaginary guardians. Concerning the imaginary guardians. Concerning the imaginary guardians. Concerning the country, the Egyptian priests said, country, the Egyptian priests said, country, the Egyptian priests said, "What is not only probable but "What is not only probable but "What is not only probable but manifestly true that the boundaries were manifestly true that the boundaries were manifestly true that the boundaries were in those days fixed by the ismas, and in those days fixed by the ismas, and in those days fixed by the ismas, and that in the direction of the continent

that in the direction of the continent that in the direction of the continent they extended as far as the heights of they extended as far as the heights of they extended as far as the heights of Siththeron and Parns. The boundary line Siththeron and Parns. The boundary line Siththeron and Parns. The boundary line came down in the direction of the sea, came down in the direction of the sea, came down in the direction of the sea, having the district of Oruripus on the having the district of Oruripus on the having the district of Oruripus on the right and with the river Asipus as the right and with the river Asipus as the right and with the river Asipus as the limit on the left. The land was the best limit on the left. The land was the best limit on the left. The land was the best in the world and was therefore able in in the world and was therefore able in in the world and was therefore able in those days to support a vast army raised those days to support a vast army raised those days to support a vast army raised from the surrounding people. Even the from the surrounding people. Even the from the surrounding people. Even the remnant of Adica which now exists may remnant of Adica which now exists may remnant of Adica which now exists may compare with any region in the world for compare with any region in the world for compare with any region in the world for the variety and excellence of its fruits the variety and excellence of its fruits the variety and excellence of its fruits and the suitableness of its pastures to and the suitableness of its pastures to and the suitableness of its pastures to every sort of animal which proves what I every sort of animal which proves what I every sort of animal which proves what I am saying. But in those days the country am saying. But in those days the country am saying. But in those days the country was fair as now and yielded far more was fair as now and yielded far more was fair as now and yielded far more abundant produce. How shall I establish abundant produce. How shall I establish abundant produce. How shall I establish my words? And what part of it can be my words? And what part of it can be my words? And what part of it can be truly called a remnant of the land that truly called a remnant of the land that truly called a remnant of the land that then was? The whole country is only a then was? The whole country is only a then was? The whole country is only a long promontory extending far into the long promontory extending far into the long promontory extending far into the sea, away from the rest of the sea, away from the rest of the sea, away from the rest of the continent, while the surrounding basin continent, while the surrounding basin continent, while the surrounding basin of the sea is everywhere deep in the of the sea is everywhere deep in the of the sea is everywhere deep in the neighborhood of the shore. Many great neighborhood of the shore. Many great neighborhood of the shore. Many great deluges have taken place during the deluges have taken place during the deluges have taken place during the 9,000 years. For that is the number of 9,000 years. For that is the number of 9,000 years. For that is the number of years which have elapsed since the time years which have elapsed since the time years which have elapsed since the time of which I am speaking. And during all of which I am speaking. And during all of which I am speaking. And during all this time and through so many changes, this time and through so many changes, this time and through so many changes, there has never been any considerable there has never been any considerable there has never been any considerable accumulation of the soil coming down accumulation of the soil coming down accumulation of the soil coming down from the mountains as in other places.

from the mountains as in other places. from the mountains as in other places. But the earth has fallen away all around But the earth has fallen away all around But the earth has fallen away all around and sunk out of sight. The consequence and sunk out of sight. The consequence and sunk out of sight. The consequence is that in comparison of what then was, is that in comparison of what then was, is that in comparison of what then was, there are remaining only the bones of there are remaining only the bones of there are remaining only the bones of the wasted body, as they may be called, the wasted body, as they may be called, the wasted body, as they may be called, as in the case of small islands, all the as in the case of small islands, all the as in the case of small islands, all the richer and softer parts of the soil richer and softer parts of the soil richer and softer parts of the soil having fallen away, and the mere having fallen away, and the mere having fallen away, and the mere skeleton of the land being left. skeleton of the land being left. skeleton of the land being left. But in the primitive state of the But in the primitive state of the But in the primitive state of the country, its mountains were high hills country, its mountains were high hills country, its mountains were high hills covered with soil, and the plains, as covered with soil, and the plains, as covered with soil, and the plains, as they are termed by us, a felus were full they are termed by us, a felus were full they are termed by us, a felus were full of rich earth, and there was abundance of rich earth, and there was abundance of rich earth, and there was abundance of wood in the mountains. Of this last, of wood in the mountains. Of this last, of wood in the mountains. Of this last, the traces still remain. For although the traces still remain. For although the traces still remain. For although some of the mountains now only afford some of the mountains now only afford some of the mountains now only afford sustenance to bees, not so very long sustenance to bees, not so very long sustenance to bees, not so very long ago, there were still to be seen roofs ago, there were still to be seen roofs ago, there were still to be seen roofs of timber cut from trees growing there, of timber cut from trees growing there, of timber cut from trees growing there, which were of a size sufficient to cover which were of a size sufficient to cover which were of a size sufficient to cover the largest houses, and there were many the largest houses, and there were many the largest houses, and there were many other high trees, cultivated by man, and other high trees, cultivated by man, and other high trees, cultivated by man, and bearing abundance of food for cattle.

bearing abundance of food for cattle. bearing abundance of food for cattle. Moreover, the land reaped the benefit of Moreover, the land reaped the benefit of Moreover, the land reaped the benefit of the annual rainfall, not as now losing the annual rainfall, not as now losing the annual rainfall, not as now losing the water which flows off the bare earth the water which flows off the bare earth the water which flows off the bare earth into the sea, but having an abundant into the sea, but having an abundant into the sea, but having an abundant supply in all places, and receiving it supply in all places, and receiving it supply in all places, and receiving it into herself, and treasuring it up in into herself, and treasuring it up in into herself, and treasuring it up in the close clay soil. It let off into the the close clay soil. It let off into the the close clay soil. It let off into the hollows the streams which it absorbed hollows the streams which it absorbed hollows the streams which it absorbed from the heights, providing everywhere from the heights, providing everywhere from the heights, providing everywhere abundant fountains and rivers, of which abundant fountains and rivers, of which abundant fountains and rivers, of which there may still be observed sacred there may still be observed sacred there may still be observed sacred memorials in places where fountains once memorials in places where fountains once memorials in places where fountains once existed. And this proves the truth of existed. And this proves the truth of existed. And this proves the truth of what I am saying. Such was the natural what I am saying. Such was the natural what I am saying. Such was the natural state of the country, which was state of the country, which was state of the country, which was cultivated, as we may well believe, by cultivated, as we may well believe, by cultivated, as we may well believe, by true husband men, who made husbandry true husband men, who made husbandry true husband men, who made husbandry their business, and were lovers of their business, and were lovers of their business, and were lovers of honor, and of a noble nature, and had a honor, and of a noble nature, and had a honor, and of a noble nature, and had a soil the best in the world, and soil the best in the world, and soil the best in the world, and abundance of water, and in the heaven abundance of water, and in the heaven abundance of water, and in the heaven above, an excellently a tempered above, an excellently a tempered above, an excellently a tempered climate. Now the city in those days was climate. Now the city in those days was climate. Now the city in those days was arranged on this wise. In the first arranged on this wise. In the first arranged on this wise. In the first place, the Acropolis was not as now, for place, the Acropolis was not as now, for place, the Acropolis was not as now, for the fact is that a single night of the fact is that a single night of the fact is that a single night of excessive rain washed away the earth and excessive rain washed away the earth and excessive rain washed away the earth and laid bare the rock. At the same time laid bare the rock. At the same time laid bare the rock. At the same time there were earthquakes, and then there were earthquakes, and then there were earthquakes, and then occurred the extraordinary inundation, occurred the extraordinary inundation, occurred the extraordinary inundation, which was the third before the great which was the third before the great which was the third before the great destruction of destruction of destruction of Chucalon. But in primitive times the Chucalon. But in primitive times the Chucalon. But in primitive times the hill of the Acropolis extended to the

hill of the Acropolis extended to the hill of the Acropolis extended to the Irodanis and Ilyus and included the Irodanis and Ilyus and included the Irodanis and Ilyus and included the Panix on one side and the Lavitus as the Panix on one side and the Lavitus as the Panix on one side and the Lavitus as the boundary on the opposite side to the boundary on the opposite side to the boundary on the opposite side to the Panix and was all well covered with soil Panix and was all well covered with soil Panix and was all well covered with soil and level at the top except in one or and level at the top except in one or and level at the top except in one or two places. Outside the Acropolis and two places. Outside the Acropolis and two places. Outside the Acropolis and under the sides of the hill there dwelt under the sides of the hill there dwelt under the sides of the hill there dwelt artisans, and such of the husbandmen as artisans, and such of the husbandmen as artisans, and such of the husbandmen as were tilling the ground near the warrior were tilling the ground near the warrior were tilling the ground near the warrior class dwelt by themselves around the class dwelt by themselves around the class dwelt by themselves around the temples of Atheni and Hesus at the temples of Atheni and Hesus at the temples of Atheni and Hesus at the summit, which moreover they had enclosed summit, which moreover they had enclosed summit, which moreover they had enclosed with a single fence like the garden of a with a single fence like the garden of a with a single fence like the garden of a single house. On the north side they had single house. On the north side they had single house. On the north side they had dwellings in common and had erected dwellings in common and had erected dwellings in common and had erected halls for dining in winter and had all halls for dining in winter and had all halls for dining in winter and had all the buildings which they needed for the buildings which they needed for the buildings which they needed for their common life besides temples. But their common life besides temples. But their common life besides temples. But there was no adorning of them with gold there was no adorning of them with gold there was no adorning of them with gold and silver for they made no use of these and silver for they made no use of these and silver for they made no use of these for any purpose. They took a middle for any purpose. They took a middle for any purpose. They took a middle course between meanness and ostentation course between meanness and ostentation course between meanness and ostentation and built modest houses in which they and built modest houses in which they and built modest houses in which they and their children's children grew old.

and their children's children grew old. and their children's children grew old. and they handed them down to others who and they handed them down to others who and they handed them down to others who were like themselves always the same. were like themselves always the same. were like themselves always the same. But in summertime they left their But in summertime they left their But in summertime they left their gardens and gymnasia and dining halls, gardens and gymnasia and dining halls, gardens and gymnasia and dining halls, and then the southern side of the hill and then the southern side of the hill and then the southern side of the hill was made use of by them for the same was made use of by them for the same was made use of by them for the same purpose. Where the Acropolis now is, purpose. Where the Acropolis now is, purpose. Where the Acropolis now is, there was a fountain which was choked by there was a fountain which was choked by there was a fountain which was choked by the earthquake and has left only the few the earthquake and has left only the few the earthquake and has left only the few small streams which still exist in the small streams which still exist in the small streams which still exist in the vicinity. But in those days the fountain vicinity. But in those days the fountain vicinity. But in those days the fountain gave an abundant supply of water for all gave an abundant supply of water for all gave an abundant supply of water for all and of suitable temperature in summer and of suitable temperature in summer and of suitable temperature in summer and in winter. This is how they dwelt and in winter. This is how they dwelt and in winter. This is how they dwelt being the guardians of their own being the guardians of their own being the guardians of their own citizens and the leaders of the Haleines citizens and the leaders of the Haleines citizens and the leaders of the Haleines who were their willing followers. And who were their willing followers. And who were their willing followers. And they took care to preserve the same they took care to preserve the same they took care to preserve the same number of men and women through all number of men and women through all number of men and women through all time, being so many as were required for time, being so many as were required for time, being so many as were required for warlike purposes then as now. That is to warlike purposes then as now. That is to warlike purposes then as now. That is to say, about say, about say, about 20,000. Such were the ancient Athenians.

20,000. Such were the ancient Athenians. 20,000. Such were the ancient Athenians. And after this manner, they righteously And after this manner, they righteously And after this manner, they righteously administered their own land and the rest administered their own land and the rest administered their own land and the rest of Halis. of Halis. of Halis. They were renowned all over Europe and They were renowned all over Europe and They were renowned all over Europe and Asia for the beauty of their persons and Asia for the beauty of their persons and Asia for the beauty of their persons and for the many virtues of their souls. And for the many virtues of their souls. And for the many virtues of their souls. And of all men who lived in those days, they of all men who lived in those days, they of all men who lived in those days, they were the most were the most were the most illustrious. And next, if I have not illustrious. And next, if I have not illustrious. And next, if I have not forgotten what I heard when I was a forgotten what I heard when I was a forgotten what I heard when I was a child, I will impart to you the child, I will impart to you the child, I will impart to you the character and origin of their character and origin of their character and origin of their adversaries. For friends should not keep adversaries. For friends should not keep adversaries. For friends should not keep their stories to themselves, but have their stories to themselves, but have their stories to themselves, but have them in common. them in common. them in common. Yet before proceeding further in the Yet before proceeding further in the Yet before proceeding further in the narrative, I ought to warn you that you narrative, I ought to warn you that you narrative, I ought to warn you that you must not be surprised if you should must not be surprised if you should must not be surprised if you should perhaps hear helenic names given to perhaps hear helenic names given to perhaps hear helenic names given to foreigners. I will tell you the reason foreigners. I will tell you the reason foreigners. I will tell you the reason of this. Solon, who was intending to use of this. Solon, who was intending to use of this. Solon, who was intending to use the tale for his poem, inquired into the the tale for his poem, inquired into the the tale for his poem, inquired into the meaning of the names, and found that the meaning of the names, and found that the meaning of the names, and found that the early Egyptians in writing them down had early Egyptians in writing them down had early Egyptians in writing them down had translated them into their own language.

translated them into their own language. translated them into their own language. and he recovered the meaning of the and he recovered the meaning of the and he recovered the meaning of the several names and when copying them out several names and when copying them out several names and when copying them out again translated them into our language. again translated them into our language. again translated them into our language. My greatgrandfather Dropay had the My greatgrandfather Dropay had the My greatgrandfather Dropay had the original writing which is still in my original writing which is still in my original writing which is still in my possession and was carefully studied by possession and was carefully studied by possession and was carefully studied by me when I was a child. Therefore, if you me when I was a child. Therefore, if you me when I was a child. Therefore, if you hear names such as are used in this hear names such as are used in this hear names such as are used in this country, you must not be surprised, for country, you must not be surprised, for country, you must not be surprised, for I have told how they came to be I have told how they came to be I have told how they came to be introduced. introduced. introduced. The tale which was of great length began The tale which was of great length began The tale which was of great length began as as as follows. I have before remarked in follows. I have before remarked in follows. I have before remarked in speaking of the allotments of the gods speaking of the allotments of the gods speaking of the allotments of the gods that they distributed the whole earth that they distributed the whole earth that they distributed the whole earth into portions differing in extent and into portions differing in extent and into portions differing in extent and made for themselves the temples and made for themselves the temples and made for themselves the temples and instituted instituted instituted sacrifices. And Poseidon receiving for sacrifices. And Poseidon receiving for sacrifices. And Poseidon receiving for his lot the island of Atlantis, begat his lot the island of Atlantis, begat his lot the island of Atlantis, begat children by a mortal woman, and settled children by a mortal woman, and settled children by a mortal woman, and settled them in a part of the island, which I them in a part of the island, which I them in a part of the island, which I will describe, looking towards the sea, will describe, looking towards the sea, will describe, looking towards the sea, but in the center of the whole island, but in the center of the whole island, but in the center of the whole island, there was a plain which is said to have there was a plain which is said to have there was a plain which is said to have been the fairest of all plains and very been the fairest of all plains and very been the fairest of all plains and very fertile. Near the plain again, and also fertile. Near the plain again, and also fertile. Near the plain again, and also in the center of the island, at a in the center of the island, at a in the center of the island, at a distance of about 50 Stadia, there was a distance of about 50 Stadia, there was a distance of about 50 Stadia, there was a mountain not very high on any side. In mountain not very high on any side. In mountain not very high on any side. In this mountain there dwelt one of the this mountain there dwelt one of the this mountain there dwelt one of the earthborn primeval men of that country, earthborn primeval men of that country, earthborn primeval men of that country, whose name was Ebanor, and he had a wife

whose name was Ebanor, and he had a wife whose name was Ebanor, and he had a wife named named named Lucipe, and they had an only daughter Lucipe, and they had an only daughter Lucipe, and they had an only daughter who was called Kleto. The maiden had who was called Kleto. The maiden had who was called Kleto. The maiden had already reached womanhood when her already reached womanhood when her already reached womanhood when her father and mother died. Poseidon fell in father and mother died. Poseidon fell in father and mother died. Poseidon fell in love with her and had intercourse with love with her and had intercourse with love with her and had intercourse with her and breaking the ground enclosed the her and breaking the ground enclosed the her and breaking the ground enclosed the hill in which she dwelt all round, hill in which she dwelt all round, hill in which she dwelt all round, making alternate zones of sea and land making alternate zones of sea and land making alternate zones of sea and land larger and smaller, encircling one larger and smaller, encircling one larger and smaller, encircling one another. There were two of land and another. There were two of land and another. There were two of land and three of water, which he turned as with three of water, which he turned as with three of water, which he turned as with a lathe, each having its circumference a lathe, each having its circumference a lathe, each having its circumference equidistant every way from the center, equidistant every way from the center, equidistant every way from the center, so that no man could get to the island, so that no man could get to the island, so that no man could get to the island, for ships and voyages were not as yet. for ships and voyages were not as yet. for ships and voyages were not as yet. He himself, being a god, found no He himself, being a god, found no He himself, being a god, found no difficulty in making special difficulty in making special difficulty in making special arrangements for the center island, arrangements for the center island, arrangements for the center island, bringing up two springs of water from bringing up two springs of water from bringing up two springs of water from beneath the earth, one of warm water and beneath the earth, one of warm water and beneath the earth, one of warm water and the other of cold, and making every the other of cold, and making every the other of cold, and making every variety of food to spring up abundantly variety of food to spring up abundantly variety of food to spring up abundantly from the soil. He also begat and brought from the soil. He also begat and brought from the soil. He also begat and brought up five pairs of twin male children. And up five pairs of twin male children. And up five pairs of twin male children. And dividing the island of Atlantis into 10 dividing the island of Atlantis into 10 dividing the island of Atlantis into 10 portions, he gave to the firstborn of portions, he gave to the firstborn of portions, he gave to the firstborn of the eldest pair his mother's dwelling the eldest pair his mother's dwelling the eldest pair his mother's dwelling and the surrounding allotment, which was and the surrounding allotment, which was and the surrounding allotment, which was the largest and best, and made him king the largest and best, and made him king the largest and best, and made him king over the rest. The others he made over the rest. The others he made over the rest. The others he made princes, and gave them rule over many princes, and gave them rule over many princes, and gave them rule over many men, and a large territory, and he named men, and a large territory, and he named men, and a large territory, and he named them all. The eldest who was the first

them all. The eldest who was the first them all. The eldest who was the first king he named Atlas and after him the king he named Atlas and after him the king he named Atlas and after him the whole island and the ocean were called whole island and the ocean were called whole island and the ocean were called Atlantic. To his twin brother who was Atlantic. To his twin brother who was Atlantic. To his twin brother who was born after him and obtained as his lot born after him and obtained as his lot born after him and obtained as his lot the extremity of the island towards the the extremity of the island towards the the extremity of the island towards the pillars of Heracles facing the country pillars of Heracles facing the country pillars of Heracles facing the country which is now called the region of Gades which is now called the region of Gades which is now called the region of Gades in that part of the world. He gave the in that part of the world. He gave the in that part of the world. He gave the name which in the helenic language is um name which in the helenic language is um name which in the helenic language is um in the language of the country which is in the language of the country which is in the language of the country which is named after him Gdyus. Of the second named after him Gdyus. Of the second named after him Gdyus. Of the second pair of twins he called one Aferes and pair of twins he called one Aferes and pair of twins he called one Aferes and the other Ebon. To the elder of the the other Ebon. To the elder of the the other Ebon. To the elder of the third pair of twins he gave the name third pair of twins he gave the name third pair of twins he gave the name Nessius and Aton to the one who followed Nessius and Aton to the one who followed Nessius and Aton to the one who followed him. Of the fourth pair of twins, he him. Of the fourth pair of twins, he him. Of the fourth pair of twins, he called the elder Elasipus and the called the elder Elasipus and the called the elder Elasipus and the younger Mestor. And of the fifth pair, younger Mestor. And of the fifth pair, younger Mestor. And of the fifth pair, he gave the elder the name of Aayaz, and he gave the elder the name of Aayaz, and he gave the elder the name of Aayaz, and to the younger that of Dia Prepus. All to the younger that of Dia Prepus. All to the younger that of Dia Prepus. All these and their descendants for many these and their descendants for many these and their descendants for many generations were the inhabitants and generations were the inhabitants and generations were the inhabitants and rulers of diverse islands in the open rulers of diverse islands in the open rulers of diverse islands in the open sea. And also, as has been already said, sea. And also, as has been already said, sea. And also, as has been already said, they held sway in our direction over the they held sway in our direction over the they held sway in our direction over the country within the pillars as far as country within the pillars as far as country within the pillars as far as Egypt and Terrenia. Now Atlas had a Egypt and Terrenia. Now Atlas had a Egypt and Terrenia. Now Atlas had a numerous and honorable family, and they numerous and honorable family, and they numerous and honorable family, and they retained the kingdom, the eldest son retained the kingdom, the eldest son retained the kingdom, the eldest son handing it on to his eldest for many

handing it on to his eldest for many handing it on to his eldest for many generations. And they had such an amount generations. And they had such an amount generations. And they had such an amount of wealth as was never before possessed of wealth as was never before possessed of wealth as was never before possessed by kings and potentates, and is not by kings and potentates, and is not by kings and potentates, and is not likely ever to be again. And they were likely ever to be again. And they were likely ever to be again. And they were furnished with everything which they furnished with everything which they furnished with everything which they needed, both in the city and country. needed, both in the city and country. needed, both in the city and country. For because of the greatness of their For because of the greatness of their For because of the greatness of their empire, many things were brought to them empire, many things were brought to them empire, many things were brought to them from foreign countries, and the island from foreign countries, and the island from foreign countries, and the island itself provided most of what was itself provided most of what was itself provided most of what was required by them for the uses of life. required by them for the uses of life. required by them for the uses of life. In the first place they dug out of the In the first place they dug out of the In the first place they dug out of the earth whatever was to be found there earth whatever was to be found there earth whatever was to be found there solid as well as fucile. And that which solid as well as fucile. And that which solid as well as fucile. And that which is now only a name and was then is now only a name and was then is now only a name and was then something more than a name or a calum something more than a name or a calum something more than a name or a calum was dug out of the earth in many parts was dug out of the earth in many parts was dug out of the earth in many parts of the island being more precious in of the island being more precious in of the island being more precious in those days than anything except gold. those days than anything except gold. those days than anything except gold. There was an abundance of wood for There was an abundance of wood for There was an abundance of wood for carpenters work and sufficient carpenters work and sufficient carpenters work and sufficient maintenance for tame and wild animals. maintenance for tame and wild animals. maintenance for tame and wild animals. Moreover, there were a great number of Moreover, there were a great number of Moreover, there were a great number of elephants in the island. For as there elephants in the island. For as there elephants in the island. For as there was provision for all other sorts of was provision for all other sorts of was provision for all other sorts of animals, both for those which live in animals, both for those which live in animals, both for those which live in lakes and marshes and rivers, and also lakes and marshes and rivers, and also lakes and marshes and rivers, and also for those which live in mountains and on for those which live in mountains and on for those which live in mountains and on plains. So there was for the animal plains. So there was for the animal plains. So there was for the animal which is the largest and most voracious which is the largest and most voracious which is the largest and most voracious of all. Also, whatever fragrant things of all. Also, whatever fragrant things of all. Also, whatever fragrant things there now are in the earth, whether there now are in the earth, whether there now are in the earth, whether roots or herbage or woods, or essences roots or herbage or woods, or essences roots or herbage or woods, or essences which distill from fruit and flour, grew which distill from fruit and flour, grew which distill from fruit and flour, grew and thrived in that land. Also, the

and thrived in that land. Also, the and thrived in that land. Also, the fruit which admits of cultivation, both fruit which admits of cultivation, both fruit which admits of cultivation, both the dry sort, which is given us for the dry sort, which is given us for the dry sort, which is given us for nourishment, and any other which we use nourishment, and any other which we use nourishment, and any other which we use for food, we call them all by the common for food, we call them all by the common for food, we call them all by the common name of pulse, and the fruits having a name of pulse, and the fruits having a name of pulse, and the fruits having a hard rind, affording drinks, and meats hard rind, affording drinks, and meats hard rind, affording drinks, and meats and ointments. and good store of and ointments. and good store of and ointments. and good store of chestnuts and the like which furnish chestnuts and the like which furnish chestnuts and the like which furnish pleasure and amusement and our fruits pleasure and amusement and our fruits pleasure and amusement and our fruits which spoil with keeping and the which spoil with keeping and the which spoil with keeping and the pleasant kinds of dessert with which we pleasant kinds of dessert with which we pleasant kinds of dessert with which we console ourselves after dinner when we console ourselves after dinner when we console ourselves after dinner when we are tired of eating. All these that are tired of eating. All these that are tired of eating. All these that sacred island which then beheld the sacred island which then beheld the sacred island which then beheld the light of the sun brought forth fair and light of the sun brought forth fair and light of the sun brought forth fair and wondrous and in infinite abundance. With wondrous and in infinite abundance. With wondrous and in infinite abundance. With such blessings the earth freely such blessings the earth freely such blessings the earth freely furnished them. Meanwhile, they went on furnished them. Meanwhile, they went on furnished them. Meanwhile, they went on constructing their temples and palaces constructing their temples and palaces constructing their temples and palaces and harbors and docks, and they arranged and harbors and docks, and they arranged and harbors and docks, and they arranged the whole country in the following the whole country in the following the whole country in the following manner. First of all, they bridged over manner. First of all, they bridged over manner. First of all, they bridged over the zones of sea which surrounded the the zones of sea which surrounded the the zones of sea which surrounded the ancient metropolis, making a road to and ancient metropolis, making a road to and ancient metropolis, making a road to and from the royal palace. And at the very from the royal palace. And at the very from the royal palace. And at the very beginning they built the palace in the beginning they built the palace in the beginning they built the palace in the habitation of the god and of their habitation of the god and of their habitation of the god and of their ancestors which they continued to ancestors which they continued to ancestors which they continued to ornament in successive generations.

ornament in successive generations. ornament in successive generations. Every king surpassing the one who went Every king surpassing the one who went Every king surpassing the one who went before him to the utmost of his power before him to the utmost of his power before him to the utmost of his power until they made the building a marvel to until they made the building a marvel to until they made the building a marvel to behold for size and for behold for size and for behold for size and for beauty. And beginning from the sea, they beauty. And beginning from the sea, they beauty. And beginning from the sea, they bored a canal of 300 ft in width and 100 bored a canal of 300 ft in width and 100 bored a canal of 300 ft in width and 100 ft in depth and 50 stadia in length, ft in depth and 50 stadia in length, ft in depth and 50 stadia in length, which they carried through to the which they carried through to the which they carried through to the outermost zone, making a passage from outermost zone, making a passage from outermost zone, making a passage from the sea up to this, which became a the sea up to this, which became a the sea up to this, which became a harbor, and leaving an opening harbor, and leaving an opening harbor, and leaving an opening sufficient to enable the largest vessels sufficient to enable the largest vessels sufficient to enable the largest vessels to find ingress. Moreover, they divided to find ingress. Moreover, they divided to find ingress. Moreover, they divided at the bridges the zones of land which at the bridges the zones of land which at the bridges the zones of land which parted the zones of sea, leaving room parted the zones of sea, leaving room parted the zones of sea, leaving room for a single tri to pass out of one zone for a single tri to pass out of one zone for a single tri to pass out of one zone into another, and they covered over the into another, and they covered over the into another, and they covered over the channels so as to leave a way underneath channels so as to leave a way underneath channels so as to leave a way underneath for the ships. For the banks were raised for the ships. For the banks were raised for the ships. For the banks were raised considerably above the water. Now the considerably above the water. Now the considerably above the water. Now the largest of the zones into which a largest of the zones into which a largest of the zones into which a passage was cut from the sea was three passage was cut from the sea was three passage was cut from the sea was three stadia in breadth, and the zone of land stadia in breadth, and the zone of land stadia in breadth, and the zone of land which came next of equal breadth. But which came next of equal breadth. But which came next of equal breadth. But the next two zones, the one of water, the next two zones, the one of water, the next two zones, the one of water, the other of land, were two stadia, and the other of land, were two stadia, and the other of land, were two stadia, and the one which surrounded the central the one which surrounded the central the one which surrounded the central island was a stadium only in width. The island was a stadium only in width. The island was a stadium only in width. The island in which the palace was situated, island in which the palace was situated, island in which the palace was situated, had a diameter of five stadia. All this, had a diameter of five stadia. All this, had a diameter of five stadia. All this, including the zones and the bridge, including the zones and the bridge, including the zones and the bridge, which was the sixth part of a stadium in which was the sixth part of a stadium in which was the sixth part of a stadium in width. They surrounded by a stone wall width. They surrounded by a stone wall width. They surrounded by a stone wall on every side, placing towers and gates on every side, placing towers and gates on every side, placing towers and gates on the bridges where the sea passed in.

on the bridges where the sea passed in. on the bridges where the sea passed in. The stone which was used in the work The stone which was used in the work The stone which was used in the work they quarried from underneath the center they quarried from underneath the center they quarried from underneath the center island and from underneath the zones on island and from underneath the zones on island and from underneath the zones on the outer as well as the inner side. One the outer as well as the inner side. One the outer as well as the inner side. One kind was white, another black, and a kind was white, another black, and a kind was white, another black, and a third red. And as they quarried they at third red. And as they quarried they at third red. And as they quarried they at the same time hollowed out double docks, the same time hollowed out double docks, the same time hollowed out double docks, having roofs formed out of the native having roofs formed out of the native having roofs formed out of the native rock. Some of their buildings were rock. Some of their buildings were rock. Some of their buildings were simple, but in others they put together simple, but in others they put together simple, but in others they put together different stones, varying the color to different stones, varying the color to different stones, varying the color to please the eye, and to be a natural please the eye, and to be a natural please the eye, and to be a natural source of delight. The entire circuit of source of delight. The entire circuit of source of delight. The entire circuit of the wall, which went round the outermost the wall, which went round the outermost the wall, which went round the outermost zone, they covered with a coating of zone, they covered with a coating of zone, they covered with a coating of brass, and the circuit of the next wall brass, and the circuit of the next wall brass, and the circuit of the next wall they coated with tin, and the third, they coated with tin, and the third, they coated with tin, and the third, which encompassed the citadel flashed which encompassed the citadel flashed which encompassed the citadel flashed with the red light of oracelcom. The with the red light of oracelcom. The with the red light of oracelcom. The palaces in the interior of the citadel palaces in the interior of the citadel palaces in the interior of the citadel were constructed on this wise. In the were constructed on this wise. In the were constructed on this wise. In the center was a holy temple dedicated to center was a holy temple dedicated to center was a holy temple dedicated to Kleto and Poseidon which remained Kleto and Poseidon which remained Kleto and Poseidon which remained inaccessible and was surrounded by an inaccessible and was surrounded by an inaccessible and was surrounded by an enclosure of gold. This was the spot enclosure of gold. This was the spot enclosure of gold. This was the spot where the family of the 10 princes first where the family of the 10 princes first where the family of the 10 princes first saw the light and thither the people saw the light and thither the people saw the light and thither the people annually brought the fruits of the earth annually brought the fruits of the earth annually brought the fruits of the earth in their season from all the 10 portions in their season from all the 10 portions in their season from all the 10 portions to be an offering to each of the 10.

to be an offering to each of the 10. to be an offering to each of the 10. Here was Poseidon's own temple which was Here was Poseidon's own temple which was Here was Poseidon's own temple which was a stadium in length and half a stadium a stadium in length and half a stadium a stadium in length and half a stadium in width and of a proportionate height in width and of a proportionate height in width and of a proportionate height having a strange barbaric appearance. having a strange barbaric appearance. having a strange barbaric appearance. All the outside of the temple with the All the outside of the temple with the All the outside of the temple with the exception of the pinnacles they covered exception of the pinnacles they covered exception of the pinnacles they covered with silver and the pinnacles with gold. with silver and the pinnacles with gold. with silver and the pinnacles with gold. In the interior of the temple, the roof In the interior of the temple, the roof In the interior of the temple, the roof was of ivory, curiously rot everywhere was of ivory, curiously rot everywhere was of ivory, curiously rot everywhere with gold and silver and with gold and silver and with gold and silver and oricalum. And all the other parts, the oricalum. And all the other parts, the oricalum. And all the other parts, the walls and pillars and floor, they coated walls and pillars and floor, they coated walls and pillars and floor, they coated with oricalum. In the temple, they with oricalum. In the temple, they with oricalum. In the temple, they placed statues of gold. There was the placed statues of gold. There was the placed statues of gold. There was the god himself standing in a chariot, the god himself standing in a chariot, the god himself standing in a chariot, the charioteer of six-winged horses, and of charioteer of six-winged horses, and of charioteer of six-winged horses, and of such a size that he touched the roof of such a size that he touched the roof of such a size that he touched the roof of the building with his head. Around him the building with his head. Around him the building with his head. Around him there were a hundred nariads riding on there were a hundred nariads riding on there were a hundred nariads riding on dolphins, for such was thought to be the dolphins, for such was thought to be the dolphins, for such was thought to be the number of them by the men of those days. number of them by the men of those days. number of them by the men of those days. There were also in the interior of the There were also in the interior of the There were also in the interior of the temple other images which had been temple other images which had been temple other images which had been dedicated by private persons. And around dedicated by private persons. And around dedicated by private persons. And around the temple on the outside were placed the temple on the outside were placed the temple on the outside were placed statues of gold of all the descendants statues of gold of all the descendants statues of gold of all the descendants of the 10 kings and of their wives. And of the 10 kings and of their wives. And of the 10 kings and of their wives. And there were many other great offerings of there were many other great offerings of there were many other great offerings of kings and of private persons coming both kings and of private persons coming both kings and of private persons coming both from the city itself and from the from the city itself and from the from the city itself and from the foreign cities over which they held foreign cities over which they held foreign cities over which they held sway. There was an altar too which in sway. There was an altar too which in sway. There was an altar too which in size and workmanship corresponded to size and workmanship corresponded to size and workmanship corresponded to this magnificence. And the palaces in this magnificence. And the palaces in this magnificence. And the palaces in like manner answered to the greatness of like manner answered to the greatness of like manner answered to the greatness of the kingdom and the glory of the temple.

the kingdom and the glory of the temple. the kingdom and the glory of the temple. In the next place they had fountains, In the next place they had fountains, In the next place they had fountains, one of cold and another of hot water. in one of cold and another of hot water. in one of cold and another of hot water. in gracious plenty flowing, and they were gracious plenty flowing, and they were gracious plenty flowing, and they were wonderfully adapted for use by reason of wonderfully adapted for use by reason of wonderfully adapted for use by reason of the pleasantness and excellence of their the pleasantness and excellence of their the pleasantness and excellence of their waters. They constructed buildings about waters. They constructed buildings about waters. They constructed buildings about them, and planted suitable trees. Also, them, and planted suitable trees. Also, them, and planted suitable trees. Also, they made sistns, some open to the they made sistns, some open to the they made sistns, some open to the heaven, others roofed over to be used in heaven, others roofed over to be used in heaven, others roofed over to be used in winter as warm baths. There were the winter as warm baths. There were the winter as warm baths. There were the king's baths and the baths of private king's baths and the baths of private king's baths and the baths of private persons which were kept apart. And there persons which were kept apart. And there persons which were kept apart. And there were separate baths for women and for were separate baths for women and for were separate baths for women and for horses and cattle. And to each of them horses and cattle. And to each of them horses and cattle. And to each of them they gave as much adorment as was they gave as much adorment as was they gave as much adorment as was suitable. Of the water which ran off suitable. Of the water which ran off suitable. Of the water which ran off they carried some to the grove of they carried some to the grove of they carried some to the grove of Poseidon, where were growing all manner Poseidon, where were growing all manner Poseidon, where were growing all manner of trees of wonderful height and beauty, of trees of wonderful height and beauty, of trees of wonderful height and beauty, owing to the excellence of the soil, owing to the excellence of the soil, owing to the excellence of the soil, while the remainder was conveyed by while the remainder was conveyed by while the remainder was conveyed by aqueducts along the bridges to the outer aqueducts along the bridges to the outer aqueducts along the bridges to the outer circles.

circles. circles. And there were many temples built and And there were many temples built and And there were many temples built and dedicated to many gods. Also gardens and dedicated to many gods. Also gardens and dedicated to many gods. Also gardens and places of exercise, some for men and places of exercise, some for men and places of exercise, some for men and others for horses. In both of the two others for horses. In both of the two others for horses. In both of the two islands formed by the zones, and in the islands formed by the zones, and in the islands formed by the zones, and in the center of the larger of the two there center of the larger of the two there center of the larger of the two there was set apart a raceourse of a stadium was set apart a raceourse of a stadium was set apart a raceourse of a stadium in width, and in length allowed to in width, and in length allowed to in width, and in length allowed to extend all around the island for horses extend all around the island for horses extend all around the island for horses to race in. Also, there were guard to race in. Also, there were guard to race in. Also, there were guard houses at intervals for the guards, the houses at intervals for the guards, the houses at intervals for the guards, the more trusted of whom were appointed to more trusted of whom were appointed to more trusted of whom were appointed to keep watch in the lesser zone, which was keep watch in the lesser zone, which was keep watch in the lesser zone, which was nearer the Acropolis, while the most nearer the Acropolis, while the most nearer the Acropolis, while the most trusted of all had houses given them trusted of all had houses given them trusted of all had houses given them within the citadel near the persons of within the citadel near the persons of within the citadel near the persons of the kings. The docks were full of triams the kings. The docks were full of triams the kings. The docks were full of triams and naval stores, and all things were and naval stores, and all things were and naval stores, and all things were quite ready for use. enough of the plan quite ready for use. enough of the plan quite ready for use. enough of the plan of the royal of the royal of the royal palace. Leaving the palace and passing palace. Leaving the palace and passing palace. Leaving the palace and passing out across the three harbors, you came out across the three harbors, you came out across the three harbors, you came to a wall which began at the sea and to a wall which began at the sea and to a wall which began at the sea and went all round. This was everywhere went all round. This was everywhere went all round. This was everywhere distant 50 stadia from the largest zone distant 50 stadia from the largest zone distant 50 stadia from the largest zone or harbor and enclosed the hole, the or harbor and enclosed the hole, the or harbor and enclosed the hole, the ends meeting at the mouth of the channel ends meeting at the mouth of the channel ends meeting at the mouth of the channel which led to the sea. The entire area which led to the sea. The entire area which led to the sea. The entire area was densely crowded with habitations, was densely crowded with habitations, was densely crowded with habitations, and the canal and the largest of the and the canal and the largest of the and the canal and the largest of the harbors were full of vessels, and harbors were full of vessels, and harbors were full of vessels, and merchants coming from all parts, who

merchants coming from all parts, who merchants coming from all parts, who from their numbers kept up a from their numbers kept up a from their numbers kept up a multitudinous sound of human voices, and multitudinous sound of human voices, and multitudinous sound of human voices, and den and clatter of all sorts, night and den and clatter of all sorts, night and den and clatter of all sorts, night and day. day. day. I have described the city and the I have described the city and the I have described the city and the environs of the ancient palace nearly in environs of the ancient palace nearly in environs of the ancient palace nearly in the words of Solon, and now I must the words of Solon, and now I must the words of Solon, and now I must endeavor to represent to you the nature endeavor to represent to you the nature endeavor to represent to you the nature and arrangement of the rest of the land. and arrangement of the rest of the land. and arrangement of the rest of the land. The whole country was said by him to be The whole country was said by him to be The whole country was said by him to be very lofty and precipitous on the side very lofty and precipitous on the side very lofty and precipitous on the side of the sea. But the country immediately of the sea. But the country immediately of the sea. But the country immediately about and surrounding the city was a about and surrounding the city was a about and surrounding the city was a level plain itself surrounded by level plain itself surrounded by level plain itself surrounded by mountains which descended towards the mountains which descended towards the mountains which descended towards the sea. It was smooth and even and of an sea. It was smooth and even and of an sea. It was smooth and even and of an oblong shape, extending in one direction oblong shape, extending in one direction oblong shape, extending in one direction 3,000 stadia, but across the center in 3,000 stadia, but across the center in 3,000 stadia, but across the center in land it was 2,000 stadia. This part of land it was 2,000 stadia. This part of land it was 2,000 stadia. This part of the island looked towards the south and the island looked towards the south and the island looked towards the south and was sheltered from the north. The was sheltered from the north. The was sheltered from the north. The surrounding mountains were celebrated surrounding mountains were celebrated surrounding mountains were celebrated for their number and size and beauty, for their number and size and beauty, for their number and size and beauty, far beyond any which still exist, having far beyond any which still exist, having far beyond any which still exist, having in them also many wealthy villages of in them also many wealthy villages of in them also many wealthy villages of country folk, and rivers and lakes and country folk, and rivers and lakes and country folk, and rivers and lakes and meadows, supplying food enough for every meadows, supplying food enough for every meadows, supplying food enough for every animal, wild or tame, and much wood of animal, wild or tame, and much wood of animal, wild or tame, and much wood of various sorts, abundant for each and various sorts, abundant for each and various sorts, abundant for each and every kind of work.

every kind of work. every kind of work. I will now describe the plane as it was I will now describe the plane as it was I will now describe the plane as it was fashioned by nature and by the labors of fashioned by nature and by the labors of fashioned by nature and by the labors of many generations of kings through long many generations of kings through long many generations of kings through long ages. It was for the most part ages. It was for the most part ages. It was for the most part rectangular and oblong and where falling rectangular and oblong and where falling rectangular and oblong and where falling out of the straight line followed the out of the straight line followed the out of the straight line followed the circular ditch. The depth and width and circular ditch. The depth and width and circular ditch. The depth and width and length of this ditch were incredible and length of this ditch were incredible and length of this ditch were incredible and gave the impression that a work of such gave the impression that a work of such gave the impression that a work of such extent in addition to so many others extent in addition to so many others extent in addition to so many others could never have been could never have been could never have been artificial. Nevertheless, I must say artificial. Nevertheless, I must say artificial. Nevertheless, I must say what I was told. It was excavated to the what I was told. It was excavated to the what I was told. It was excavated to the depth of 100 ft and its breadth was a depth of 100 ft and its breadth was a depth of 100 ft and its breadth was a stadium everywhere. It was carried stadium everywhere. It was carried stadium everywhere. It was carried around the whole of the plane and was around the whole of the plane and was around the whole of the plane and was 10,000 stadia in length. It received the 10,000 stadia in length. It received the 10,000 stadia in length. It received the streams which came down from the streams which came down from the streams which came down from the mountains and winding round the plain mountains and winding round the plain mountains and winding round the plain and meeting at the city was there let and meeting at the city was there let and meeting at the city was there let off into the sea. Further inland off into the sea. Further inland off into the sea. Further inland likewise straight canals of a 100 ft in likewise straight canals of a 100 ft in likewise straight canals of a 100 ft in width were cut from it through the plain width were cut from it through the plain width were cut from it through the plain and again let off into the ditch leading and again let off into the ditch leading and again let off into the ditch leading to the sea. These canals were at to the sea. These canals were at to the sea. These canals were at intervals of a 100 stadia, and by them intervals of a 100 stadia, and by them intervals of a 100 stadia, and by them they brought down the wood from the they brought down the wood from the they brought down the wood from the mountains to the city, and conveyed the mountains to the city, and conveyed the mountains to the city, and conveyed the fruits of the earth in ships, cutting fruits of the earth in ships, cutting fruits of the earth in ships, cutting transverse passages from one canal into transverse passages from one canal into transverse passages from one canal into another, and to the city. Twice in the another, and to the city. Twice in the another, and to the city. Twice in the year they gathered the fruits of the year they gathered the fruits of the year they gathered the fruits of the earth. in winter having the benefit of

earth. in winter having the benefit of earth. in winter having the benefit of the rains of heaven, and in summer the the rains of heaven, and in summer the the rains of heaven, and in summer the water which the land supplied by water which the land supplied by water which the land supplied by introducing streams from the introducing streams from the introducing streams from the canals. As to the population, each of canals. As to the population, each of canals. As to the population, each of the lots in the plain had to find a the lots in the plain had to find a the lots in the plain had to find a leader for the men who were fit for leader for the men who were fit for leader for the men who were fit for military service, and the size of a lot military service, and the size of a lot military service, and the size of a lot was a square of 10 stadia each way. And was a square of 10 stadia each way. And was a square of 10 stadia each way. And the total number of all the lots was the total number of all the lots was the total number of all the lots was 60,000. 60,000. 60,000. And of the inhabitants of the mountains And of the inhabitants of the mountains And of the inhabitants of the mountains and of the rest of the country, there and of the rest of the country, there and of the rest of the country, there was also a vast multitude which was was also a vast multitude which was was also a vast multitude which was distributed among the lots, and had distributed among the lots, and had distributed among the lots, and had leaders assigned to them according to leaders assigned to them according to leaders assigned to them according to their districts and villages. The leader their districts and villages. The leader their districts and villages. The leader was required to furnish for the war the was required to furnish for the war the was required to furnish for the war the sixth portion of a war chariot so as to sixth portion of a war chariot so as to sixth portion of a war chariot so as to make up a total of 10,000 chariots. Also make up a total of 10,000 chariots. Also make up a total of 10,000 chariots. Also two horses and riders for them and a two horses and riders for them and a two horses and riders for them and a pair of chariot horses without a seat pair of chariot horses without a seat pair of chariot horses without a seat accompanied by a horseman who could accompanied by a horseman who could accompanied by a horseman who could fight on foot carrying a small shield fight on foot carrying a small shield fight on foot carrying a small shield and having a charioteer who stood behind and having a charioteer who stood behind and having a charioteer who stood behind the man at arms to guide the two horses.

the man at arms to guide the two horses. the man at arms to guide the two horses. Also he was bound to furnish two heavy Also he was bound to furnish two heavy Also he was bound to furnish two heavy armed soldiers, two archers, two armed soldiers, two archers, two armed soldiers, two archers, two slingers, three stone shooters, and slingers, three stone shooters, and slingers, three stone shooters, and three javelin men who were light armed, three javelin men who were light armed, three javelin men who were light armed, and four sailors to make up the and four sailors to make up the and four sailors to make up the complement of 1,200 ships. Such was the complement of 1,200 ships. Such was the complement of 1,200 ships. Such was the military order of the royal city. The military order of the royal city. The military order of the royal city. The order of the other nine governments order of the other nine governments order of the other nine governments varied, and it would be worrisome to varied, and it would be worrisome to varied, and it would be worrisome to recount their several recount their several recount their several differences. as to offices and honors. differences. as to offices and honors. differences. as to offices and honors. The following was the arrangement from The following was the arrangement from The following was the arrangement from the first. Each of the 10 kings in his the first. Each of the 10 kings in his the first. Each of the 10 kings in his own division and in his own city had the own division and in his own city had the own division and in his own city had the absolute control of the citizens and in absolute control of the citizens and in absolute control of the citizens and in most cases of the laws, punishing and most cases of the laws, punishing and most cases of the laws, punishing and slaying whomsoever he would. Now the slaying whomsoever he would. Now the slaying whomsoever he would. Now the order of presidents among them and their order of presidents among them and their order of presidents among them and their mutual relations were regulated by the mutual relations were regulated by the mutual relations were regulated by the commands of Poseidon which the law had commands of Poseidon which the law had commands of Poseidon which the law had handed down. These were inscribed by the handed down. These were inscribed by the handed down. These were inscribed by the first kings on a pillar of first kings on a pillar of first kings on a pillar of Oricelcom which was situated in the Oricelcom which was situated in the Oricelcom which was situated in the middle of the island at the temple of middle of the island at the temple of middle of the island at the temple of Poseidon. Wiither the kings were Poseidon. Wiither the kings were Poseidon. Wiither the kings were gathered together every fifth and every gathered together every fifth and every gathered together every fifth and every sixth year alternately, thus giving sixth year alternately, thus giving sixth year alternately, thus giving equal honor to the odd and to the even equal honor to the odd and to the even equal honor to the odd and to the even number. And when they were gathered number. And when they were gathered number. And when they were gathered together, they consulted about their together, they consulted about their together, they consulted about their common interests and inquired if anyone common interests and inquired if anyone common interests and inquired if anyone had transgressed in anything and passed had transgressed in anything and passed had transgressed in anything and passed judgment. And before they passed

judgment. And before they passed judgment. And before they passed judgment, they gave their pledges to one judgment, they gave their pledges to one judgment, they gave their pledges to one another on this wise. another on this wise. another on this wise. There were BS who had the range of the There were BS who had the range of the There were BS who had the range of the temple of Poseidon. And the 10 kings temple of Poseidon. And the 10 kings temple of Poseidon. And the 10 kings being left alone in the temple after being left alone in the temple after being left alone in the temple after they had offered prayers to the god that they had offered prayers to the god that they had offered prayers to the god that they might capture the victim which was they might capture the victim which was they might capture the victim which was acceptable to him hunted the bulls acceptable to him hunted the bulls acceptable to him hunted the bulls without weapons but with staves and without weapons but with staves and without weapons but with staves and nooes. And the bull which they caught, nooes. And the bull which they caught, nooes. And the bull which they caught, they led up to the pillar and cut its they led up to the pillar and cut its they led up to the pillar and cut its throat over the top of it, so that the throat over the top of it, so that the throat over the top of it, so that the blood fell upon the sacred blood fell upon the sacred blood fell upon the sacred inscription. Now on the pillar, besides inscription. Now on the pillar, besides inscription. Now on the pillar, besides the laws, there was inscribed an oath the laws, there was inscribed an oath the laws, there was inscribed an oath invoking mighty curses on the invoking mighty curses on the invoking mighty curses on the disobedient. disobedient. disobedient. When therefore, after slaying the bowl When therefore, after slaying the bowl When therefore, after slaying the bowl in the accustomed manner, they had burnt in the accustomed manner, they had burnt in the accustomed manner, they had burnt its limbs, they filled a bowl of wine, its limbs, they filled a bowl of wine, its limbs, they filled a bowl of wine, and cast in a cloth of blood for each of and cast in a cloth of blood for each of and cast in a cloth of blood for each of them. The rest of the victim they put in them. The rest of the victim they put in them. The rest of the victim they put in the fire, after having purified the the fire, after having purified the the fire, after having purified the column all round. Then they drew from column all round. Then they drew from column all round. Then they drew from the bowl in golden cups, and pouring a the bowl in golden cups, and pouring a the bowl in golden cups, and pouring a libation on the fire, they swore that libation on the fire, they swore that libation on the fire, they swore that they would judge according to the laws they would judge according to the laws they would judge according to the laws on the pillar, and would punish him who on the pillar, and would punish him who on the pillar, and would punish him who in any point had already transgressed in any point had already transgressed in any point had already transgressed them, and that for the future they would them, and that for the future they would them, and that for the future they would not, if they could help, offend against not, if they could help, offend against not, if they could help, offend against the writing on the pillar, and would the writing on the pillar, and would the writing on the pillar, and would neither command others nor obey any neither command others nor obey any neither command others nor obey any ruler who commanded them to act

ruler who commanded them to act ruler who commanded them to act otherwise than according to the laws. of otherwise than according to the laws. of otherwise than according to the laws. of their father Poseidon. This was the their father Poseidon. This was the their father Poseidon. This was the prayer which each of them offered up for prayer which each of them offered up for prayer which each of them offered up for himself and for his descendants at the himself and for his descendants at the himself and for his descendants at the same time drinking and dedicating the same time drinking and dedicating the same time drinking and dedicating the cup out of which he drank in the temple cup out of which he drank in the temple cup out of which he drank in the temple of the God. And after they had sapped of the God. And after they had sapped of the God. And after they had sapped and satisfied their needs, when darkness and satisfied their needs, when darkness and satisfied their needs, when darkness came on and the fire about the sacrifice came on and the fire about the sacrifice came on and the fire about the sacrifice was cool, all of them put on most was cool, all of them put on most was cool, all of them put on most beautiful azure robes. beautiful azure robes. beautiful azure robes. and sitting on the ground at night over and sitting on the ground at night over and sitting on the ground at night over the embers of the sacrifices by which the embers of the sacrifices by which the embers of the sacrifices by which they had sworn and extinguishing all the they had sworn and extinguishing all the they had sworn and extinguishing all the fire about the temple. They received and fire about the temple. They received and fire about the temple. They received and gave judgment if any of them had an gave judgment if any of them had an gave judgment if any of them had an accusation to bring against anyone. And accusation to bring against anyone. And accusation to bring against anyone. And when they had given judgment at when they had given judgment at when they had given judgment at daybreak, they wrote down their daybreak, they wrote down their daybreak, they wrote down their sentences on a golden tablet and sentences on a golden tablet and sentences on a golden tablet and dedicated it together with their robes dedicated it together with their robes dedicated it together with their robes to be a to be a to be a memorial. There were many special laws memorial. There were many special laws memorial. There were many special laws affecting the several kings inscribed affecting the several kings inscribed affecting the several kings inscribed about the temples, but the most about the temples, but the most about the temples, but the most important was the following. They were important was the following. They were important was the following. They were not to take up arms against one another, not to take up arms against one another, not to take up arms against one another, and they were all to come to the rescue and they were all to come to the rescue and they were all to come to the rescue if anyone in any of their cities if anyone in any of their cities if anyone in any of their cities attempted to overthrow the royal house.

attempted to overthrow the royal house. attempted to overthrow the royal house. Like their ancestors, they were to Like their ancestors, they were to Like their ancestors, they were to deliberate in common about war and other deliberate in common about war and other deliberate in common about war and other matters, giving the supremacy to the matters, giving the supremacy to the matters, giving the supremacy to the descendants of Atlas. and the king was descendants of Atlas. and the king was descendants of Atlas. and the king was not to have the power of life and death not to have the power of life and death not to have the power of life and death over any of his kinsmen unless he had over any of his kinsmen unless he had over any of his kinsmen unless he had the ascent of the majority of the the ascent of the majority of the the ascent of the majority of the 10. Such was the vast power which the 10. Such was the vast power which the 10. Such was the vast power which the gods settled in the lost island of gods settled in the lost island of gods settled in the lost island of Atlantis. And this he afterwards Atlantis. And this he afterwards Atlantis. And this he afterwards directed against our land for the directed against our land for the directed against our land for the following reasons. As tradition tells, following reasons. As tradition tells, following reasons. As tradition tells, for many generations, as long as the for many generations, as long as the for many generations, as long as the divine nature lasted in them, they were divine nature lasted in them, they were divine nature lasted in them, they were obedient to the laws and well obedient to the laws and well obedient to the laws and well affectioned towards the God whose seed affectioned towards the God whose seed affectioned towards the God whose seed they were. For they possessed true and they were. For they possessed true and they were. For they possessed true and in every way great spirits, uniting in every way great spirits, uniting in every way great spirits, uniting gentleness with wisdom in the various gentleness with wisdom in the various gentleness with wisdom in the various chances of life, and in their chances of life, and in their chances of life, and in their intercourse with one another, they intercourse with one another, they intercourse with one another, they despised everything but virtue, caring despised everything but virtue, caring despised everything but virtue, caring little for their present state of life, little for their present state of life, little for their present state of life, and thinking lightly of the possession and thinking lightly of the possession and thinking lightly of the possession of gold and other property, which seemed of gold and other property, which seemed of gold and other property, which seemed only a burden to them. Neither were they only a burden to them. Neither were they only a burden to them. Neither were they intoxicated by luxury, nor did wealth intoxicated by luxury, nor did wealth intoxicated by luxury, nor did wealth deprive them of their self-control, but deprive them of their self-control, but deprive them of their self-control, but they were sober and saw clearly that all they were sober and saw clearly that all they were sober and saw clearly that all these goods are increased by virtue and these goods are increased by virtue and these goods are increased by virtue and friendship with one another. Whereas by friendship with one another. Whereas by friendship with one another. Whereas by too great regard and respect for them, too great regard and respect for them, too great regard and respect for them, they are lost and friendship with them.

they are lost and friendship with them. they are lost and friendship with them. By such reflections and by the By such reflections and by the By such reflections and by the continuence in them of a divine nature, continuence in them of a divine nature, continuence in them of a divine nature, the qualities which we have described the qualities which we have described the qualities which we have described grew and increased among them. But when grew and increased among them. But when grew and increased among them. But when the divine portion began to fade away the divine portion began to fade away the divine portion began to fade away and became diluted too often and too and became diluted too often and too and became diluted too often and too much with the mortal ad mixture, and the much with the mortal ad mixture, and the much with the mortal ad mixture, and the human nature got the upper hand, they human nature got the upper hand, they human nature got the upper hand, they then being unable to bear their fortune then being unable to bear their fortune then being unable to bear their fortune behaved behaved behaved unseemly. and to him who had an eye to unseemly. and to him who had an eye to unseemly. and to him who had an eye to see grew visibly debased. For they were see grew visibly debased. For they were see grew visibly debased. For they were losing the fairest of their precious losing the fairest of their precious losing the fairest of their precious gifts. But to those who had no eye to gifts. But to those who had no eye to gifts. But to those who had no eye to see the true happiness, they appeared see the true happiness, they appeared see the true happiness, they appeared glorious and blessed at the very time glorious and blessed at the very time glorious and blessed at the very time when they were full of aberous and when they were full of aberous and when they were full of aberous and unrighteous power. unrighteous power. unrighteous power. Zeus, the God of gods, who rules Zeus, the God of gods, who rules Zeus, the God of gods, who rules according to law and is able to see into according to law and is able to see into according to law and is able to see into such things, perceiving that an such things, perceiving that an such things, perceiving that an honorable race was in a woeful plight, honorable race was in a woeful plight, honorable race was in a woeful plight, and wanting to inflict punishment on and wanting to inflict punishment on and wanting to inflict punishment on them, that they might be chasened and them, that they might be chasened and them, that they might be chasened and improve, collected all the gods into improve, collected all the gods into improve, collected all the gods into their most holy habitation, which being their most holy habitation, which being their most holy habitation, which being placed in the center of the world, placed in the center of the world, placed in the center of the world, beholds all created things. And when he beholds all created things. And when he beholds all created things. And when he had called them together, he spake as had called them together, he spake as had called them together, he spake as follows. Footnote. The rest of the follows. Footnote. The rest of the follows. Footnote. The rest of the dialogue of Critius has been lost. End

dialogue of Critius has been lost. End dialogue of Critius has been lost. End of of of footnote. End of part two. Recording by footnote. End of part two. Recording by footnote. End of part two. Recording by Kevin Johnson. End of chitius by Plato. Kevin Johnson. End of chitius by Plato. Kevin Johnson. End of chitius by Plato. Translated by Benjamin Joet.